Cats to have open-air revival in London in 2026

Cats will be revived next summer at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.

Cats is a musical composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber, based on T S Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. It premiered in London’s West End in 1981 and on Broadway in 1982, becoming one of the longest-running shows in both cities. The musical follows the Jellicle Cats, who gather at the Jellicle Ball to choose one cat to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn. A 2019 film adaptation followed.

It will be directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie, who said: “As for many dancers in the industry, Cats was a transformative experience for me and as a former cast member it’s thrilling to be directing and choreographing this brand-new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical. I can’t wait to share this much–loved piece with a new generation of audiences both in the stunning outdoor setting of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and in theatres across the UK.

“With the production heading out on tour, we are delighted that it will reach audiences across the country after its London run, continuing our commitment to working with partners – in this case the brilliant Michael Harrison – to ensure our work is seen by as many as possible beyond our home in Regent’s Park.”

Lloyd Webber added: “I am very excited to see a totally new production of Cats back on the stage where it belongs. I can think of no-one better than Drew McOnie to bring a new vision to the world of the Jellicles.”

The show will run at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre from 25 July to 12 September, with a press night on 6 August. After that, it will tour – with tour information available here.

Tickets for Cats in London go on sale to members on 23 October and to general public on 28 October, while the venue’s full 2026 season will be unveiled soon.