Chicago Reader
- Somewhat Recommended
"...And that’s what’s good about this production. What is not good is the use of generative AI in Anthony Churchill’s media design. Churchill confirmed to the Reader via email that “industry standard tools,” including “generative and predictive AI,” notably OpenAI’s controversial Sora program, were used alongside traditional animation and recorded video for his design, which, other than a fun live-camera effect that accompanies “The Rum Tum Tugger,” primarily serves as a visual backdrop to the action."
Chicago Stage and Screen
- Highly Recommended
"...If you are a fan or if you don't know why people love this show and want to fall heels over head for these winning felines, head over to Skokie with the whole family and take in this musical theater wonder."
Around The Town Chicago
- Highly Recommended
"...Under the clever direction/choreography of Mandy Modic, this marvelous story of felines and their personalities keeps the audience on its toes from start to finish. The show is filled with high energy and a cast that plays the audience as a cat might play a visitor. We are no longer in the junkyard, but rather a living room with a stairway leasing to a second floor balcony. The set (Milo Bue) is unique in that the stairs come apart to be used for other things, a chandelier comes down for some extra special touches of circus proportion, and a floor lamp becomes a pole for a few incredible dance steps."
Chicago Theatre Review
- Highly Recommended
"...In addition to Mandy Modic's wonderfully inspired staging and choreography, the superb vocal performances are under Linda Madonia's majestic musical direction. She also conducts and plays keyboard for the superb backstage orchestra. All the circus arts choreography comes courtesy of Danielle H. Gennaoui and media designer Anthony Churchill makes the telly come alive. The array of gorgeous cat costumes were designed by kclare McKellaston, with hair, wigs and makeup designed by Melanie Saso. Everything and everyone work perfectly together in this sensational and purr-fect production of CATS."
Buzz Center Stage
- Highly Recommended
"...What I appreciated most about this rich and colorful production is how it reflects the moment we’re living in. At a time when the world feels unsteady, we’re each our own special kind of “cat,” carrying unique talents and flaws, and offering up our personal histories - our triumphs and our losses to each other our fellow "cats" - as the curtain of world seems to be falling around us. Yet, in that shared vulnerability, we find the strength to realize that as long as we keep supporting one another, the light never truly goes out."
Chicago Theater and Arts
- Highly Recommended
"...Music Theater Works’ production of CATS at Skokie’s North Shore Center for the Performing Arts is a nonstop “catcaphony” of frenzied feline fun."
Allie and the After Party
- Recommended
"...Music Theater Works’ take on CATS is sure to please this musical’s long time fans and cat lovers alike. The cats come out to play as the ensemble embodies the cats from their unique costumes down to their feline-esque movements all paired with show-stopping dance numbers."
Werner's Theatre Reviews
- Recommended
"...Whether you are a lifelong fan or approaching Cats for the first time, Music Theatre Works offers a lively reminder of why this unusual musical continues to endure. By leaning fully into its spectacle, humor, and eccentric charm, this production invites audiences to simply enjoy the Jellicle Ball, and rediscover the magic of live theatre."
