YORK Light Youth presents Cats, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s much beloved musical that tells the tale of a tribe of cats called the Jellicles and the night they decide who among them will be granted a magical new life.

York Light Youth comprises of many talented young performers, whose most recent successes include Les Miserables in October 2014 and Honk! in May 2015.

The anticipation and excitement of the audience was palpable as the lights dimmed and the show began. Although young, the energy and ability of the performers was obvious right from the start. The costumes and set design, although limited, were bright and distinctive, making for a real feast for the eyes, while the clever use of the limited space and a few well-executed fourth wall breaks gave a true sense of immersion.

The two real standouts of the night though were Naomi Halliday, who dominated the stage as the outcast Grizabella with her powerful and emotional vocals, and Ben Papworth, alternating his role with Sam Rippon during this week. His multiple appearances as various characters – including the gluttonous Bustopher Jones and Asparagus the old theatre cat – showcased a breadth and depth of acting talent that was genuinely astounding.

Overall, York Light Youth’s production of Cats was wacky, weird and wonderful, with every performer making every effort to bring the strange, mysterious world of the Jellicles to life, resulting in a heartfelt and earnest show that more than earned the applause that followed its players offstage. Director John Hall, musical director Michael Thompson and choreographer Hayley Patrick-Copeland have a hit on their hands, with plenty more chances to see Cats this week.

Cats, Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York, until Saturday. Box office: yorklightyouth@yorklight.com or 07795 384644