BUTLER TWP — I've always wondered what Andrew Lloyd Webber was thinking or drinking when he wrote the musical "CATS." He apparently read the book of poems by T.S. Eliot and an award winning musical was born, out of which the song "Memory" became its calling card and the audition song for every Broadway wannabe.

<embed src="/assets/mov/BE2489583.MOV " width="320" height="250" autostart="true" loop="false" align="right"></embed>Last year the rumor began to circulate that Gordon Cavalero was reading the "CATS" script for the Butler Summer Dramatics and I was stunned. I was even more stunned Thursday by opening night that the group actually pulled off one of the most challenging productions they've undertaken during the summer program.The summer dramatics program has offered quality shows, but this Tony Award winning and the longest running Broadway musical is a complex show to produce.Whether or not you are a fan of Weber's fantasy, the costumes or the choreography, this show did not disappoint on any of those counts. While some audio issues plagued the show early, technically the production was capably mastered.The hit song "Memory" was sung by Grizabella played by Kristen Double and by Sarah Bishop who played Jemima. Double's powerful voice and evocative delivery was moving and Bishop's clear vocals were music to the ears.Deuteronomy, played by Brady Patsy, took a stab at it as well and did his portion of the score justice.

The key to "CATS" is in the footwork and the cast eagerly pounced on the moves. Although somewhat declawed to best suit the actors, the moves were smooth and well done. Erin Uhl who took on much of the choreographer role was a fantastically flexible Victoria cat and showed her abilities as a choreographer as well.Connie Rodgers, who quite proficiently tackled the role of Jennyanydots, tapped her way into the audience's heart and got a rousing applause after her number "Old Gumbie Cat."Brad Griffiths take on Rum Tum Tugger, who is much like a "Bye Bye Birdie" type cat was the cats meow. His moving and shaking, or should I say slinking and sliding, had the female cats purring.Younger performers donned on tails and whiskers and portrayed a cast of young kittens. The costumes and make up were amazing. The group of kittens invaded the theater on all fours much to the delight of several younger children in the audience.Despite shaking my head throughout, marveling at Weber's desire to bring this "tail" to life, I was pleasantly surprised and at times amazed at the ease and the professional quality with which this production was presented.No, I will not be out looking to add a cat to my family, but if you can get tickets, it is definitely a show not to be missed. It was nothing to sneeze at, that is unless you are allergic to "CATS."

Video by Brandon Gerthoffer