Sleek, poised and elegant, the cast of the touring production of ‘Cats’ glided across the stage and into the audience’s hearts.

35 years since it first took to the stage, one would have thought it was time for the Jellicle cats to retire.

But the real strength that has truly stood the test of time is Gillian Lynne’s remarkable choreography.

Never have there been so many flicks, kicks, extensions and developpes as the cast threw them into highly energised routines.

Her choreographed duets and solos not only gave each cat a personality but also showcase the talents of the cast.

And perhaps this is the show’s greatest accolade – each ensemble member shone as they purred, strutted and stretched across the stage. Their voices powerful and pirouettes impressive, together they were a force to be reckoned with.

Emily Langham and Joe Henry as the rouge duo, Rumpelteazer and Mungojerrie were a delight to watch as they cartwheeled across the junkyard.

Both performers embodied their characters as they tumbled, leaped and joked in their routine.

Shiv Rabheru blew the audience away not only with his glittering solo but also with his explosive magic tricks.

But what was more magical than “Magical Mr Mistoffelees’” rhinestone catsuit was Marianne Benedict as the tragic, excluded Grizabella.

Her rendition of the most famous song in the show, ‘Memory’ had the hairs standing up on the back of my neck, matching the orchestra as they went in for the big finish.

The junkyard where all the mongrels congregate ahead of the Jellicle Ball is littered with impressive lighting and sound effect, which bring the production into the 21st century, from the boot of a battered car, to the hundreds of cats eyes and the powerful light display which opened the show.

And as the cats prowled the aisles, the audience marvelled at the intricate make-up and costumes they were wearing.

However, I’m sure though, that in Ms Lynne’s original choreography there was not a velvet velour trouser- wearing version of Rum Tum Tugger. Neither was the production’s feeble attempt to update one of the characters as a hip-hop cat a great success, and was a little embarrassing, more Will Smith from the 90s than Jay-Z or Kayne West.

Sometimes a production or a performance is so timeless it doesn't need a poorly executed overhaul of one of its most beloved characters. But although the performance was far from purrrfect (sorry couldn't resist), this timeless classic that still had the audience getting to their feet.

3.5/5 Until Saturday at the New Theatre 0844 8713020. atgtickets.com/oxford