London’s summer theatre calendar has gained another welcome highlight, with Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre announcing a one-week extension to its eagerly anticipated new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS following exceptional early demand.
The production, directed and choreographed by Artistic Director Drew McOnie, has already become the fastest-selling musical in the venue’s 94-year history, prompting organisers to extend its run before the curtain has even risen. Originally scheduled to conclude earlier, CATS will now play from 25 July until 19 September 2026, with the official press night taking place on 6 August.
There could scarcely be a more fitting setting for one of musical theatre’s most celebrated works. Beneath the trees of Regent’s Park, audiences will be immersed in the nocturnal world of T.S. Eliot’s beloved Jellicle cats, brought vividly to life through Andrew Lloyd Webber’s unforgettable score. Featuring enduring favourites including Memory, Macavity: The Mystery Cat, The Jellicle Ball and Old Deuteronomy, the production promises to combine the magic of open-air performance with one of the most iconic musicals ever written.
McOnie, whose recent productions including Jesus Christ Superstar and Brigadoon have earned widespread acclaim, expressed his delight at the public response, noting that the extension will allow even more audiences to experience the production in what he describes as Regent’s Park’s “magical open air venue”.
The production boasts an impressive company led by Melanie La Barrie as Old Deuteronomy, Gary Wilmot as Gus and Rachael Wooding as Grizabella, alongside Jaydon Vijn as Rum Tum Tugger, Charlotte Riby as Jennyanydots, Danny Nattrass as Mungojerrie, Briana Craig as Rumpleteazer and Jet Yau as the dazzling Mr. Mistoffelees. The creative team is equally distinguished, with set, costume and wigs designed by Sami Fendall, lighting by Jessica Hung Han Yun, sound by Adam Fisher and musical supervision by Alex Parker.
Few London venues possess quite the same sense of occasion as Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Since opening in 1932, the 1,304-seat theatre has become one of the capital’s most distinctive cultural destinations, renowned for ambitious productions that make imaginative use of its spectacular outdoor surroundings. Recent years have seen a string of award-winning productions transfer to the West End and embark on international tours, cementing its reputation as one of Britain’s leading producing theatres.
With tickets starting from £15 and a range of accessible performances scheduled throughout the run, this fresh interpretation of CATS looks set to become one of London’s defining theatrical events of the summer. For those hoping to secure seats beneath the stars, the newly announced extension offers a timely second chance.
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
CATS
25 July to 19 September 2026
Inner Circle, Regent’s Park, London NW1 4NU
Box Office: 0333 400 3562
openairtheatre.com
