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Today in History: Webber’s Cats opens at New London Theatre

5/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On 11 May 1981, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical *Cats* premiered at London’s New London Theatre. Adapted from T.S. Eliot’s *Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats*, the show introduced the Jellicle cats and their “Jellicle choice.” The production launched a run that would become one of the longest-running West End and Broadway hits.

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Story summary

On 11 May 1981, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical *Cats* premiered at London’s New London Theatre. Adapted from T.S. Eliot’s *Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats*, the show introduced the Jellicle cats and their “Jellicle choice.” The production launched a run that would become one of the longest-running West End and Broadway hits.