Ep263 - Ryan Jackson, Mistoffelees on US National Tour 5

“You know when you walk into a conversation and two friends are laughing so hard you start to laugh? You have no idea what they are laughing about but the energy is infectious. I think that the fact this show is utter nonsense, it allows a freedom so then the joy on stage invites the audience in.” This episode features Ryan Jackson who played Mr. Mistoffelees during the early years of the US National Tour 5 of CATS. Hear Ryan discuss his first exposure to the show, rehearsals filled with unwritten lore, and Gillian Lynne’s surprising insights into the choreography. Ryan describes the ensemble-driven fun of touring, including onstage games, the influence of superfans and fan art, and how constant cast changes kept performances fresh. He reflects on the pre-show ritual of applying Cats makeup which helped launch his later career as a makeup supervisor on Broadway. An episode you won’t want to miss.

03:23 Rehearsal Lore

11:14 Keeping It Fresh on Tour

21:15 CATS Makeup to Makeup Career

26:01 Mistoffelees Entrance

29:32 Makeup Career Origins

34:34 Cats: The Jellicle Ball

38:06 Rapid Fire

Check out Ryan on Instagram: @thisguysmakeup, @its_ryan_jackson & @thisguysbeauty

Check out Death Becomes Her on Social Media: @deathbecomesher

Check out Death Becomes Her's website: ⁠⁠deathbecomesher.com⁠

Produced by: