ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
"CATS", one of the biggest hits in theatre history, is coming to Abu Dhabi from May 14 to 24, 2026, Proactiv Entertainment, GWB Entertainment and LW Entertainment, announced this week.
The global stage sensation is being brought to the Etihad Arena in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi and Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi.
The show features a magnificent musical score composed by the legendary Andrew Lloyd Webber ("The Phantom of the Opera", "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat", "Jesus Christ Superstar", "Evita", "Starlight Express"), including the timeless hit song "Memory".
Replete with a fantastical oversized set, inspired choreography and mischievous costumes, CATS is a brilliant song and dance spectacular not to be missed.
"Few musicals have created a cultural impact as enduring as CATS," said Nicolas Renna, CEO of Proactiv Entertainment. "It's a landmark production that has captivated audiences for over four decades through music, movement and imagination. We are proud to bring this globally celebrated musical to Abu Dhabi as we continue to champion world-class theatre experiences in the region."
Fakhry Alsarraj, Abu Dhabi events Bureau Director at the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, said: "We're incredibly excited for the debut of CATS in Abu Dhabi next year. This beloved musical has connected with people of all ages for decades, and having it come to life on stage at Etihad Arena will be a special moment for audiences here and across the region."
Leon Marsh, Director of Events & Community Engagement at Miral, said: "The debut of the iconic show CATS demonstrates Miral's ongoing efforts to delivering world-class entertainment and we are thrilled to host it on Yas Island. This globally acclaimed and award-winning musical is set to delight fans of all ages and underscores our dedication to creating joyful and unforgettable experiences."
Paul Warwick Griffin of GWB Entertainment said: "Having produced CATS around the world, it feels particularly special to finally be bringing it to Abu Dhabi, where we know audiences will experience the magic of this truly iconic musical".
Composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber and based on TS Eliot's "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats", the original London production opened in 1981 at the New London Theatre and transferred to Broadway's Winter Garden Theatre 1982.
Since its world premiere, CATS has been staged in over 30 countries, has been translated into 15 languages, and has been seen by more than 73 million people worldwide.