Betty Buckley Reflects on Drag-Ball Production of 'Cats' in New York Times Op-Ed

Betty Buckley, the original Grizabella in Broadway's "Cats," has authored an opinion piece for The New York Times discussing a new drag-ball production of the musical. In her commentary published on April 4, 2026, Buckley argues that the production's ballroom culture approach doesn't impose foreign elements but rather illuminates what was always inherent in the show. She describes "Cats" as having always been a ballroom where distinct personalities present their style and story before a watching community. The original Broadway production of "Cats" premiered in 1982, with Buckley originating the role of Grizabella, who sings the iconic "Memory." The new production reinterprets the musical through the lens of ballroom culture, a performance style rooted in LGBTQ+ communities. Buckley's perspective connects the musical's original themes of identity and performance with contemporary drag-ball traditions. The article appears in the opinion section of The New York Times, indicating it represents Buckley's personal viewpoint rather than straight news reporting. This marks a significant commentary from a key original cast member about a contemporary reinterpretation of a classic musical.