Ep271 - Jaydon Vijn, Rum Tum Tugger in 2026 Regent's Park Open Air Theatre

“We have this system that every cat in the show is on a different life out of the nine lives which is a really interesting way of thinking about it.” This episode features Jaydon Vijn who is currently performing as Rum Tum Tugger in Drew McOnie’s reimagined production of CATS at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in London. Jaydon shares his CATS fandom from dance college, why Tugger was always his dream role, and what the audition process revealed about the production’s choreography. He discusses how the revival feels like a fresh show while honoring the original, including storytelling focus, character “nine lives” backstories, and relationships onstage. Jaydon details Tugger’s dynamics with Bombalurina, Munkustrap, Old Deuteronomy, and a mentorship-style bond with Mistoffelees, plus his darker, more adult take on Tugger. An episode not to miss.

02:11 Rum Tum Tugger Dream Role

04:18 Reimagining a Classic

10:10 Building a Darker Tugger

11:44 Outdoor Theater Experiences

15:33 Costumes Makeup and New Look

17:44 Tugger’s Relationship Web

25:50 Favorite Show Moments

38:31 Rapid Fire

Check out Jaydon on Instagram: @jay.vijn

Check out CATS @ Regent's Park Open Air Theatre: openairtheatre.com/production/cats

Check out the CATS UK Tour: uktour.catsthemusical.com