One of the biggest hits in theatrical history, CATS opens in Detroit at the Fisher Theatre this week as part of a multi-season North American tour.
Composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber and based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the record-breaking musical spectacular has captivated audiences in over 30 countries and 15 languages, is now on tour across North America! Featuring new sound design, direction, and choreography for a new generation — experience CATS for the first time as it begins a new life, or let it thrill you all over again!
City.Life.Style. chopped it up with CATS performer, Mariah Reives:
Reives began dancing at a small studio in Sanford, North Carolina. She then went on to train at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and graduated from Marymount Manhattan College with a B.A. in Teaching. She has been seen on television for “The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon,” “So You Think You Can Dance” and now comes to Detroit in her role as Cassandra in CATS!
City.Life.Style: When and how did you know dancing was your passion?
Mariah Reives: I began dancing when I was three years old, but it wasn’t until I was about seven or eight years old that I really started to take dance very seriously. I went to North Carolina School of the arts starting my sophomore year of high school to focus more on this art. It was there that I really found the drive to become a professional dancer and to pursue this career. I went to Marymount Manhattan College in New York where I found my true passion for musical theater. Being able to bring both dance and musical theater into 1 show is a dream of mine.
CLS: Who or what influences your dance style?
Reives: I’ve had many mentors in the past but what truly influences my dance style today are the children who come to see the shows. I enjoy watching their faces and seeing them be inspired by just the simple art of dance.
CLS: What can the audience expect from CATS and your performance?
Reives: Cats is unlike any musical you will ever see. It’s such a classic but the new choreography done by Andy Blakenbuehler bring an exciting show for all generations. You will laugh, you may cry, you may even see yourself in a couple of cats, but overall you will leave the theatre with a smile and happy heart.
CLS: Is this your first time to Detroit? What are you looking forward to doing while in the D?
Reives: This will be my first time in Detroit. I am looking forward to seeing the city and exploring all the sites that Detroit has to offer. Cedar Point is definitely on that list!
CATS returns to Detroit from September 3-15, 2019 and tickets start at $35. For more information visit www.broadwayindetroit.com or www.ticketmaster.com
About Post Author
