I actually saw CATS during its first few months on Broadway. I was really not impressed.
"Smart! And into all those exotic mystiques -- The Kama Sutra and Chinese techniques. I hear she knows more than seventy-five. Call me tomorrow if you're still alive!"
I saw the original 5 times. Not that I liked it, but one of my best friends, Reed Jones, was the original Broadway Skimbleshanks. He's no longer with us, like too many from that original cast, but his memory is now and forever. This is Reed putting on his Skimble makeup:
Tim, Ken & Betty were all outstanding, agreed. I'm sorry Reed felt upstaged by the "train." I can see how that might happen (psychologically), but honestly... I'm here to tell you he wasn't upstaged. I very clearly remember his boundless energy, winning personality and joy during the number... he was charming! And that song always makes me smile when I hear him on the OBC. The train was only a clever "accessory," albeit a damn good one. It didn't take away from his talents in the least, though.
"Jaws is the Citizen Kane of movies."
blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22
Also saw the original cast (well, most of them - a couple had left, but none of the "leading" roles). Also loved it. It wasn't great, deep, intellectual, thought-provoking theater, but it WAS wonderful dancing, singing, music, costumes, makeup, and sets (some of which were quite innovative at the time).
The previously mentioned actors were all great. And sitting in the theater hearing Betty Buckley sing "Memory" was amazing - much more powerful than listening to a recording.
(Best12bars & paljoey - Skimbleshanks was always one of my favorites too.)