Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Ken Ard Returns to Broadway, Revives Cats with New Energy

4/15/2026

25 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Ken Ard, former star of the original Cats, returns to Broadway in Cats: The Jellicle Ball after a 25-year hiatus.
The revival mirrors New York's recovery after the 9/11 attacks.
Ard calls the production a spectacular reinvention inspired by the Black and Latino queer ballroom scene.
He praises its energy and relevance, celebrating gay and trans joy, and hopes the revival inspires a new generation to embrace musical theater.

1 of 1

Story summary

Ken Ard, former star of the original Cats, returns to Broadway in Cats: The Jellicle Ball after a 25-year hiatus.
The revival mirrors New York's recovery after the 9/11 attacks.
Ard calls the production a spectacular reinvention inspired by the Black and Latino queer ballroom scene.
He praises its energy and relevance, celebrating gay and trans joy, and hopes the revival inspires a new generation to embrace musical theater.