The plot of Cats revolves around a unique tribe of felines known as the Jellicle Cats, who gather one special night each year for the highly anticipated Jellicle Ball. During this mystical event, they must make the "Jellicle Choice," an ancient tradition where one deserving cat is selected to ascend into the Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a new, elevated life.
The Annual Jellicle Ball
The entire show unfolds over a single night in a sprawling junkyard, which serves as the gathering place for the diverse group of Jellicle Cats. Each feline possesses a distinct personality, from the mischievous Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer to the wise Old Deuteronomy and the outcast Grizabella.
The Purpose of the Gathering
The primary objective of the Jellicle Ball is for each cat to present themselves, often through song and dance, showcasing their unique stories, traits, and contributions to the Jellicle tribe. This performance is their way of proving their worthiness to Old Deuteronomy, the revered and ancient leader of the Jellicle Cats, who holds the power to make the ultimate Jellicle Choice.
Key Moments and Characters
Throughout the night, various cats step forward to introduce themselves, offering glimpses into their lives and characters:
- Rum Tum Tugger: A rebellious and self-centered cat who loves to be the center of attention.
- Bustopher Jones: A portly, aristocratic cat who frequents London's finest establishments.
- Jennyanydots: The "Gumbie Cat," who spends her days lounging but trains mice and cockroaches at night.
- Skimbleshanks: The "Railway Cat," who keeps the trains running smoothly.
- Macavity: The show's only truly villainous character, a notorious "mystery cat" who disrupts the proceedings.
- Grizabella: A faded glamour cat, once beautiful, who is now an outcast. Her journey for acceptance and eventual redemption is a central emotional arc of the show.
The Jellicle Choice and Ascension
As the night progresses, the Jellicle Cats await Old Deuteronomy's decision. The tension builds, especially with the interruptions caused by Macavity. Ultimately, the Jellicle Choice is made, selecting the cat deemed most worthy to embark on the journey to the Heaviside Layer, symbolizing spiritual rebirth and a new beginning.
Plot Elements at a Glance
For a clearer understanding of the show's core narrative elements, consider the following:
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Main Event | The Jellicle Ball |
| Setting | A junkyard, occurring over one night |
| Protagonists | The diverse and individualistic Jellicle Cats |
| Goal | To make the "Jellicle Choice" – deciding which cat is worthy of ascension |
| Resolution | One cat is chosen to ascend to the Heaviside Layer for rebirth |
| Central Theme | Redemption, community, identity, and the cycle of life |
The plot of Cats, while seemingly simple, focuses on the collective and individual journeys of these unique felines as they seek purpose and rebirth under the watchful eye of their revered leader. For more details on the musical's history and impact, you can visit Broadway.com's Cats Synopsis.
