You can save this article by registering for free here. Or sign-in if you have an account.
St. Clair College performing arts students are shown during a rehearsal of the musical CATS on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at the Chrysler Theatre in Windsor.Photo by Dan Janisse /Windsor Star
Article content
St. Clair College performing arts students hope to inspire audiences to support the Windsor-Essex County Humane Society as they put a modern twist on the perennial stage musical CATS.
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic masterpiece, based on T.S. Eliot’s poetry collection titled Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, delves into themes of acceptance, love, forgiveness and the impact of one’s legacy.
Advertisement 2
This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below.
THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY
Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.
Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account.Get exclusive access to the Windsor Star ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on.Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists.Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists.Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword.
SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES
Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.
Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account.Get exclusive access to the Windsor Star ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on.Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists.Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists.Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword.
REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES
Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.
Access articles from across Canada with one account.Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments.Enjoy additional articles per month.Get email updates from your favourite authors.
Sign In or Create an Account
or
Article content
Article content
Director and choreographer Kristyn Wiklanski hopes the themes will resonate deeply with audiences, stirring emotions and sparking introspection.
Wiklanski also said her aim is to honour the essence of CATS while infusing it with a modern-day flair.
“My vision for the choreography is to maintain the intensity and shape of the original while adding contemporary elements,” Wiklanski said.
Donation boxes for the local humane society will be placed at the entrance to the Chrysler Theatre during the production, with proceeds going towards adoption programs, humane education initiatives, cruelty investigations and a pet food bank.
“We are proud to support the Windsor-Essex County Humane Society and their important work in our community,” Wiklanski said.
“Through this partnership, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals in need and promote compassion and kindness towards all living creatures.”
St. Clair College performing arts student Gracienne Swarbick is shown as Grizabella during a rehearsal of CATS on Tuesday at the Chrysler Theatre in downtown Windsor.Photo by Dan Janisse /Windsor Star
CATS, the fifth-longest-running Broadway musical, is set in a mystical world inhabited by the Jellicle cats on the night the cats gather to make the “Jellicle choice” — determining which cat will ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a new life.
Advertisement 3
This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below.
Article content
One of the most challenging aspects of staging CATS is that it lacks a traditional script.
Wiklanski and the cast embraced the challenge, delving into character research and development to create a cohesive and compelling narrative.
As well, to bring the production to life, students will dance, sing and act.
“My vision for the choreography is to maintain the intensity and shape of the original while adding contemporary elements,” Wiklanski said.
St. St. Clair College performing arts students were captured during a rehearsal of the musical CATS on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at the Chrysler Theatre in Windsor. The cast includes Gracienne Swarbrick as Grizabella, Marot Sammartino as Munkustrap, and Alex Wyant as Rum Tum Tugger. According to Wiklanski, CATS is a production that requires triple threats, and these students possess the necessary skills in dance, vocals, and acting to bring the show to life. The musical CATS premiered on April 17 at the Chrysler Theatre, located at 201 Riverside Dr. W. Showtimes are scheduled for Wednesday to Saturday at 7:30 p.m. with a matinee performance on Saturday at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased for $20, with student discounts available for $10. Tickets can be purchased online at chryslertheatre.com, by phone at 519-252-6579, or at the box office. For more information, contact jkotsis@postmedia.com or visit twitter.com/KotsisStar.
SummaryVancouver Rise FC achieved a 1-0 victory over Calgary Wild FC in the inaugural match of the Northern Super League on Wednesday. The highlight of the match was Canadian women's national team midfielder Quinn, who made history by scoring the first goal in league history with a penalty kick in the 22nd minute. This significant event marks a notable milestone for the league and showcases Quinn's impact on the game. Full Article
An MLA and former minister recently expelled from the United Conservative Party caucus has accused the health minister—and potentially the premier—of withholding crucial information from cabinet ministers during discussions regarding the Alberta Health Services board of directors. This allegation raises concerns about transparency and decision-making within the provincial government. The situation highlights potential governance issues within Alberta's political landscape, particularly in the context of health services management. Full Article
During the French-language debate on April 16, 2025, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh had his microphone cut after he persisted in discussing health care despite being urged by moderator Patrice Roy to move on due to time constraints. Singh later criticized Roy for silencing him, noting he spoke the least among the leaders, with 22:10 minutes compared to others’ 25 minutes. In his closing remarks, Roy apologized for cutting Singh off, while Singh expressed pride in...
SummaryDuring a French-language debate in Montreal on April 16, 2025, Liberal leader Mark Carney defended his policies against attacks from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, and Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet. The debate, which coincided with a Montreal Canadiens playoff game, covered topics such as the cost of living and relations with the U.S., with Carney facing criticism for past affiliations and his handling of American tariffs. Despite moments of humor, Carney...
Scientists have discovered fossil dinosaur footprints from a newly identified species in British Columbia and Alberta, marking the first known tracks of club-tailed ankylosaurs. These findings, observed by Victoria Arbour, curator at the Royal B.C. Museum, provide significant insights into previously unexplored gaps in the fossil record. The tracks, located at Wolverine River near Tumbler Ridge in August 2023, represent a crucial addition to our understanding of dinosaur locomotion and diversity. Full Article
Critics are once again voicing their opposition to the provincial government’s plan to construct a luxury spa on the former Ontario Place site. The backlash is fueled by allegations that the company selected to manage the multi-billion-dollar project misrepresented itself and overstated its experience to secure the contract. As demolition work continues on the site, concerns regarding transparency and the qualifications of the involved parties have intensified among stakeholders. Full Article
