Cooper Howell (MTP '15) is making their New York City directorial debut as Associate Director for Broadway's "Cats: The Jellicle Ball."
In its third iteration on Broadway, this production of “Cats” reimagines the well-known Andrew Lloyd Webber musical and re-sets it in the world of Ballroom at the Broadhurst Theatre. Previews will begin March 18, 2026 ahead of Opening Night on April 7, 2026. Drawing on inspirations from vogue dancing, queer and popular culture, and the world of drag, "Cats: The Jellicle Ball," showcases the Ballroom scene in a vibrant and electric spotlight.
Howell thanks Directors Zhailon Levingston and Bill Rauch for believing in them and trusting them with the incredible journey from Actor to Assistant Director to Associate Director. Says Howell, “Cats: The Jellicle Ball is my dream show—a perfect alignment with my vision for the future for American Theatre. The work I get to do now, with so many more doors opening to me now, is all because Bill and Zhailon took a chance on me.”
Photos courtesy of Howell.
You may have heard of Howell’s other, recent accomplishments which include joining New York Theater Company as an inaugural member of their collective, participating in the Theatre Producers of Color (TPOC): Producing 101 Workshop, directing/writing “THE LOOP, The Immersive Silent Disco Play” for New York Theatre Company, directing “Death Comes in Threes” for the “4th Annual Breaking the Binary Theatre Festival,” and reading for a new New York City Drag Series titled, “Quick Change,” starring “RuPaul’s Drag Race” alum Plasma (Season 16). With their experience and drive, it's safe to say we'll be hearing more fantastic theatre updates from Cooper Howell in the future.