The Evolution of 'Cats': A Cultural Phenomenon
The iconic musical 'Cats' has undergone a remarkable transformation, merging with the vibrant world of ballroom culture. As I entered the Broadhurst Theatre, the atmosphere was electric, with the rhythmic clacking of hand fans setting the tone. This unique fusion of Broadway and ballroom is a testament to the power of artistic innovation.
A Cultural Collision
The audience, adorned in sequins and cat ears, was treated to an introduction by Junior LaBeija, a ballroom legend. His words set the stage for a celebration of self-expression and diversity. The show seamlessly blends the original 'Cats' choreography with the dynamic moves of voguing, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
Ballroom's Rise to Fame
Ballroom culture, born in Harlem during the 1970s, provided a safe haven for Black and Latino queer individuals to express themselves freely. The competitive nature of vogue battles, categorized by beauty, fashion, and 'realness,' has captivated audiences and participants alike. Its journey from an insular community to a mainstream phenomenon is both inspiring and complex.
Broadway Meets Ballroom
Bringing ballroom to Broadway was a bold move, but with a cast and crew rooted in the culture, it became a powerful vehicle for storytelling. The musical's fantastical plot, where cats introduce themselves before one is chosen for reincarnation, mirrors the competitive spirit of ballroom balls. Andrew Lloyd Webber, the original creator, embraced this radical twist, inviting celebrity guest judges like Lin-Manuel Miranda to join the celebration.
Behind the Scenes
The production's origins lie in the creative minds of Bill Rauch and Zhailon Levingston, who envisioned a queer interpretation of 'Cats'. Ballroom veterans Omari Wiles and Arturo Lyons played a pivotal role in merging the two worlds. Adapting voguing to the Broadway score was a challenge, but as Lyons humorously noted, professionals can vogue to anything!
Characters Come Alive
The characters in the show reflect the essence of ballroom. For instance, the 'Pretty Boy Realness' category suits Rum Tum Tugger perfectly, while Macavity embodies the 'Labels' category with a Telfar bag. The cast, a mix of ballroom and Broadway talent, brings authenticity to the stage. Chasity Moore, as Grizabella, adds a new layer to the character, portraying her as an outcast competitor.
Personal Connections
The cast's personal connections to ballroom culture are profound. Primo Thee Ballerino, a competitive dancer, finds his character, Tumblebrutus, mirroring his own ballroom persona. Leiomy, a renowned voguer, identifies with Macavity's struggle, recalling her own experiences in the scene. These personal narratives add depth and emotion to the production.
A Historical Perspective
The roots of modern ballroom culture trace back to Crystal LaBeija, a Black trans woman who challenged racism in white-dominated drag pageants. The House of LaBeija became the first ballroom house, providing a surrogate family for trans women, gay men, and queer people of color. The show pays homage to these pioneers with a slideshow and a song by Junior LaBeija, a descendant of the original house.
Preserving Heritage
LaBeija's performance as Gus the Theater Cat is a highlight, drawing from their own ballroom experiences. Their command of the stage is a testament to their legendary status in the community. The house system, a vital part of ballroom culture, is well-represented in the cast, with members like Primo and Lyons serving as mentors and icons within their respective houses.
Bridging Worlds
The backstage of 'Cats' has become a family, where theater actors and ballroom veterans share their experiences. This cross-pollination of cultures has led to some traditional theater actors expressing interest in joining the ballroom scene. Primo highlights the importance of finding one's persona in the welcoming theater world before facing the judgment of ballroom balls.
Ballroom's Growing Pains
The increased visibility of ballroom culture through social media and YouTube has brought both opportunities and challenges. While it has gained recognition, the rise in prize money has intensified the competition. The fear of exploitation and appropriation is real, especially when projects like RuPaul's Drag Race borrow heavily from ballroom culture without proper credit.
Reclaiming the Spotlight
'Cats: The Jellicle Ball' serves as a platform to reclaim and educate. Arturo Lyons emphasizes the need for the ballroom community to take back their culture from celebrities and music artists who may appropriate it. While some have reservations about bringing ballroom to Broadway, the production's inclusive approach and respect for its roots have garnered praise.
A Platform for Change
The show's impact extends beyond the theater. LaBeija sees it as a vehicle to broaden understanding and showcase Black history. The success of the production has opened doors for the cast, allowing them to make careers out of their passion. However, the desire to keep voguing exclusive to the community remains strong.
A Legacy in the Making
Primo's vision of ballroom creating generational wealth is a powerful statement. He attributes this potential to the Black trans women who laid the foundation for the culture. As ballroom continues to evolve and gain mainstream attention, it is crucial to honor its origins and ensure that its pioneers receive the recognition they deserve.
