Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS is playing at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in London in a brand-new production directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie.
Latest Update
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS is now playing at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in London, with performances running until 19 September 2026. The production opened on 6 August following previews from 25 July and was extended by one week due to demand.
Overview
This brand-new production brings CATS into the open-air setting of Regent’s Park. Based on T. S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the musical features songs including “Memory”, “Macavity: The Mystery Cat”, “Old Deuteronomy” and “Jellicle Ball”. The production is directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie.
Cast
The 2026 London cast includes Melanie La Barrie as Old Deuteronomy, Gary Wilmot as Gus (Growltiger), Rachael Wooding as Grizabella, Millie O’Connell as Demeter, Jaydon Vijn as Rum Tum Tugger, Jack Wilcox as Munkustrap, Jet Yau as Mr. Mistoffelees and more.
Creative Team
Music is by Andrew Lloyd Webber, based on T. S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. Drew McOnie directs and choreographs, with Sami Fendall designing set, costume and wigs, Jessica Hung Han Yun designing lighting, Adam Fisher designing sound and Alex Parker as musical supervisor.
Production Images
Official production and rehearsal photography: Mark Senior.
Dates, Tour & Venue
Venue: Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, London
Dates: 25 July – 19 September 2026
Performance times: Monday–Saturday at 7.45pm, with Thursday and Saturday matinees at 2pm on selected dates.
Running time: approximately 2 hours 15 minutes including an interval.
Tickets
Tickets start from £15, plus a £2.50 booking fee per transaction. Prices may vary by performance and availability. Check current CATS availability and book via Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.
Why See It
This is the first new London production of CATS in years, reimagined specifically for the atmosphere of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. The limited London season also precedes a major UK tour running through to July 2027, making the Regent’s Park run a chance to see the production in its original 2026 setting.
Clarissa’s Review
A personal Clarissa’s Corner review will be linked here if we attend the production. Until then, this page remains the practical guide for current cast, dates, tickets and access information.
Accessibility
The venue has level access throughout, including the auditorium and accessible toilets. Assisted performances for CATS include a Relaxed Performance on 27 August, BSL performance on 1 September, Captioned performance on 4 September and Audio Described performance on 5 September.
The musical is recommended for ages 5+. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.
Practical Information
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is an outdoor venue, so it is worth checking the theatre’s weather and performance guidance before travelling. The theatre recommends planning your journey in advance and provides walking guides from nearby stations including Baker Street and Euston.
FAQ
When is CATS playing at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre?
The 2026 London run is from 25 July to 19 September 2026.
How long is CATS?
The running time is approximately 2 hours 15 minutes, including an interval.
How much are tickets?
Tickets start from £15, plus a £2.50 booking fee per transaction, although prices may fluctuate.
Is CATS suitable for children?
The theatre recommends the musical for ages 5+.
Will CATS tour after London?
Yes. Following the Regent’s Park run, this production is scheduled to undertake a major UK tour through to July 2027. View CATS UK tour dates and tickets via ATG Tickets.
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