Andrew Lloyd Webber's record-breaking, iconic musical celebrates its 40th Australian anniversary in a larger-than-life production, starring Gabriyel Thomas, Todd McKenney, Mark Vincent, Lucy Maunder and more.

'CATS' features timeless music, spectacular sets, breathtaking choreography and stunning music.

Performer Jarrod Draper will step into the role of Munkustrap the storytelling tomcat. Most recently, Jarrod starred as Artie Green in 'Sunset Boulevard'. . . And he even made history as the first Indigenous artist to play Toulouse-Lautrec in 'Moulin Rouge! The Musical' for Global Creatures.

Jarrod is a fierce champion for visibility and Indigenous representation in the performing arts.

Here, we speak to Jarrod about all things 'CATS', its place in queer culture, and breaking barriers in the theatre.

For people who’ve never seen 'CATS' before. . . How would you sum up the experience in three words?
Bold. Whimsical. Feline.

Munkustrap is known as the leader and storyteller of the Jellicle cats – what’s been your favourite thing about stepping into his paws?
It’s been a treat to embrace Munkustrap. My favourite thing is that his characteristics aren’t far removed from characteristics that I obtain. His paws never felt too far out of reach. The journey of leadership and forgiveness he undertakes in the piece is very fruitful to play.

‘CATS' is such an iconic show, with some very dedicated fans. Have you had any memorable encounters with superfans so far?
I don’t think you realise the impact that 'CATS' has until you’re inside of the beast. People of all ages really resonate with the piece. It’s been a real treat to speak to people whom it was the first musical they saw 40 years ago, now sharing that with their children and grandchildren. It definitely makes me feel proud to be part of such a legacy. But to answer your question, one interaction that sticks out thus far is a young person who played Munkustrap in a high school production came to me and said the role allowed them to come to terms with their gender identity. That felt very special to share in that.

There’s a lot of physicality in this production – what’s harder, nailing the choreography or staying in character as a cat the whole time?
Honestly, I think both are equally as hard as one another. It depends on the day, really! But look, if one was going to take precedence, I’d say staying in the physicality of a cat is something you always have to pay attention to. It requires an immense amount of focus and discipline.

If you could swap roles with any other cat in the show for one performance, who would you choose and why?
Good question! And a tricky one to answer. Maybe Bombalurina? I think she’s incredibly fierce, and has a lot of presence and stature. And singing/dancing the song 'Macavity' would be intoxicating.

The ‘CATS' costumes and makeup are legendary – what was your reaction the first time you saw yourself fully transformed into Munkustrap?
I believe my first word when seeing it all come together was 'camp'. The process leading up to that, I had done everything individually. Meaning, I had a fitting just for the costume, then a separate makeup session, then a wig session. So the moment when it was all on was quite surreal. I didn’t recognise myself whatsoever, which is kind of an actor's dream when taking on a role.

The world of ‘CATS' is bold, a bit surreal, and full of personality. . . Do you think that kind of unapologetic theatricality is part of why it’s always had a special place in queer culture?
I do. I really do. It’s truly unlike any other theatrical experience. And it is such an amalgamation of form and genre that there is really something in it for everyone which is why it’s stood the test of time. It’s the first and last of its kind. And I mean, Mr Mistoffelees is surely cemented in history as one of the most queer characters from a musical, right? Every time that number happens, I watch and think to myself “this is gay rights. 'CATS' is gay rights”.

Image © Daniel Boud

You’ve broken barriers for Indigenous representation in musical theatre. How does it feel bringing that visibility into a show as high-profile and beloved as ‘CATS'?
That’s very kind of you to say. Thank you. It feels incredible to be able to bring visibility to Aboriginal people and culture through this medium. I always said that I wanted to use this platform and every opportunity for that reason, and to engage in healthy conversation to propel us forward. And for 'CATS' – with a legacy of 40 years – to embrace that is a very joyful experience.

Finally – if you were at the Jellicle Ball in real life, what would your special talent be to impress Old Deuteronomy?
Honestly, I’d impress him the same way that Munkustrap does. By staying true to myself with integrity, dignity and discipline.

'CATS' plays Crown Theatre (Perth) from 8 November, Hamer Hall (Melbourne) from 21 December, and Queensland Performing Arts Centre (Brisbane) from 6 February.