”Cats” musical on stage in Larnaca, Cyprus

Andrew Lloyd Webber's renowned musical ''Cats'', based on Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats by T.S. Eliot, will be on stage in Cyprus as part of the 2009 Larnaca Festival.

''Cats'' first opened in the West End in 1981 and then on Broadway in 1982, has been performed around the world in numerous productions and has been translated into more than 20 languages.

Cypriots and foreign visitors will be able to enjoy the musical, by top performers from London's West End, on July 1 and 2 at the Pattichion Municipal Amphitheatre of Larnaca

Larnaca Mayor Andreas Moyseos has told a press conference that the municipality's aim was to upgrade and enrich its cultural events, and that this Summer would be the best ever in cultural events, providing an alternative form of entertainment.

Moyseos also referred to other events, which include Michael Flatley's ''Lord of the Dance'' on July 7, with 46 Irish dancers and musicians, bringing a ''revolution'' into traditional Irish dancing, combining the traditional element with modern pop choreographies.

On July 22 the Moscow City Ballet will be performing ''Swan Lake'' and on July 27 there will be a unique performance by Cesaria Evora.

The Festival also includes ancient Greek events, such as Aristophanes' comedy ''Nepheles'' on July 10, and Aeschylus' tragedy ''Choiphores'' on July 13.

On July 15, 17, 25 and 29 there will be concerts with Greek classical and popular music, on July 19 the play ''In Cyprus' Kingdom'' and on July 26 a poetry recital.