CATS' Choreographer Andy Blankenbuehler On Unfolding The Familiar To Find Something Deeper

After establishing himself as a Broadway gypsy in dance-heavy shows like STEEL PIER, FOSSE and SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER, Andy Blankenbuehler hit the jackpot with just his second Main Stem choreographing gig, winning a Tony for creating the contemporary hip-hop moves that kept IN THE HEIGHTS in motion. After Tony-nominated assignments with 9 TO 5 and BRING IT ON (which he also directed), his work is once again making an indelible mark with another Lin-Manuel Miranda hip-hop musical, the supernova HAMILTON.

Picked by Cats' composer, Andrew Lloyd Webber to work with him and original director Trevor Nunn on the upcoming Broadway revival, Blankenbuehler is very aware that a great deal of the public affection for the "Now and Forever" hit is the choreography originally stamped on the piece by Gillian Lynne.

"So many millions of people have a love affair with this show; I feel it is important to give them what they remember," he tells Broadway Direct.

And even though his choreography will be based on Lynne's work, it will not provide a complete replica.

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Based on T.S. Eliot's "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats," this wonderfully imaginative show features breathtaking music, including one of the most treasured songs in musical theater - "Memory." Winner of 7 Tony Awards including BEST MUSICAL, CATS tells the story of one magical night when an extraordinary tribe of cats gathers for its annual ball to rejoice and decide which cat will be reborn. Featuring a cast of beautiful dancers and singers and the original Tony-winning sets and costumes, this beloved hit is still Broadway's most unforgettable event. Experience CATS for the first time as it begins a new life for a new generation... or let it thrill you once again!