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[0:00] Mike Abrams: Hey, everybody. Welcome to The Wrong Cat Died. This is Mike Abrams, your host. I'm excited for you to hear this episode with Elise O'Connell, who is Grizabella on the Royal Caribbean Cruise's Oasis of the Sea right now. I wanted to just give a quick disclaimer before the episode starts that Elise is actually still on the cruise when we were recording this. And so this was recorded outside at port where the internet was a little funky and a lot of background noises with cars and a lot of people. So we did our best with the editing to get the audio the best we could. There's still some definitely some moments that you'll hear where it kind of cuts out a little bit or there's some definitely some background noise.

But the episode was so fun. Elise had such amazing theories and stories and experience from doing on the boat that we still want to release it. So I'm excited for you all to hear this, but just know and ahead of time about the audio issues. So I apologize for that, but excited for you to enjoy the episode. There's a cat over here. There's a cat over there. And the wrong one died. And the wrong one died.

[1:07] Mike Abrams: Welcome to The Wrong Cat Died, the podcast breakdown the catastrophe. I'm your host, Mike Abrams. And today we have another amazing guest. She's actually currently on the boat of the Royal Caribbean Cruise Oasis of the Seas performing as Grizabella. So welcome Elise O'Connell. Thank you for joining me.

[1:20] Elise O'Connell: Thank you for having me. I'm excited to have you. I know when I messaged you and we were talking about I was trying to see if we could get some more cruise cats on and you were like, I'm in the middle of a two show day. So I would love to chat. So I love that you're like in the thick of things right now. But let's start with the prehistory of Cats. So before the cruise, before getting booked, what was your experience with the show?

[1:39] Elise O'Connell: So my experience, I went to performing arts high school in Chicago. And one of our assignments, I think my sophomore year of high school was to perform the T.S. Eliot poems in acting class. So I kind of came up the show in a very different way than most, I think. And so I knew the poems, knew the backstory from that side of things on a literature side, and then I hadn't watched the show at all until my freshman year of college when one of my best friends was absolutely obsessed with the musical. And I think it was a shame that I could do one because at the time, Grizabella was not younger. And also, I'm not a dancer, dancer, and I didn't realize that Grizabella is mostly a singing act teacher. So I came up the show in a very different way, but very grateful for it.

[2:52] Mike Abrams: That's amazing. So you did, by doing the poems, you actually didn't do Grizabella's poem though, right? Because that's not in the book.

[2:56] Elise O'Connell: Exactly. At the time, I think I was assigned the Monday Day Reflector on her. So I knew that very well. And it was always my favorite memory in the show when I had first seen it. So very opposite to Griz.

[3:12] Mike Abrams: Yeah. So then you get cast, you are going through rehearsal process. How much of like, did you like lean back on knowing that? Because you obviously knew a little bit of the work, but having not seen it, I guess you saw it in high school, but did you lean in on the poetry and tried to build the arc from there? Or did you kind of go in of, here's this many, many years of history and 16 years, I think, of real Caribbean history to kind of build off of?

[3:42] Elise O'Connell: Yeah. So we are very, very fortunate at Royal. So our director, Megha Flowers, along with our choreographer, Divya Gaurav, and the whole creative team worked very closely with Rob. So on the very first day of rehearsals, instead of learning any choreography or learning any music, we sat in a circle and read through the poems, offered up a history of the show to really make sure everyone was on the same page and started building our tribe that way.

[4:19] Mike Abrams: I love that. It's so fun to kind of hear how you come up with the backstory, especially since your production is different, because it's only 90 minutes, so you don't have some characters. So do they go through in the rehearsals that part where it's a, here's kind of what anybody who's coming in who's a Cats historian and has known it is expecting versus what you're going to deliver, which is a no intermission, slightly tweaked version of it?

[4:41] Elise O'Connell: We did talk about the parts of the shows that are not in it, like Buster Began, Speaks and Follicles, all of that. And sort of talked about how our story goes, because it is a 90 minute version. And we have the main meat of the show in there. There are some bits that are missing, but you meet all of the important parts. And it's really easily digestible for a cruise ship audience.

[5:15] Mike Abrams: Totally. Yeah, you kind of have to, you can't have an intermission in a show that no one's paying for and expect them to stay and come back. But what did they tell you about Grizabella? What was the Grizabella story that you kind of built out or that was kind of started in rehearsal?

[5:31] Elise O'Connell: Well, a lot of it is up to the person who plays her. There's obviously some backstory from the T.S. Eliot poem that isn't included in the book. But a lot of how Griz was created is based on the person herself, walking and the notes on the page. Everything is very detailed. But how you approach the characters can be up to you. So that might be a little bit personal side of things that I think people will stick it to themselves.

[6:12] Mike Abrams: I was gonna say, what are you willing to share? What is your Grizabella then?

[6:16] Elise O'Connell: I think a little secret bit that many people probably do know, but every character has three words that are most important to them and they're given to you. And my favorite word that Grizabella has is indomitable. She is beaten down and is not afraid to continue to stand back up. And I think that's really important about my Griz.

[6:43] Mike Abrams: Do you think about or did you think about where Grizabella went when she left the tribe? Did you fill in that backstory?

[6:57] Elise O'Connell: Absolutely. Okay. What's your take?

[6:57] Elise O'Connell: There are many different things that people will say. And if you look on the little fandom pages, you can see pages and pages of different ideas of what happened. But I think she just lived a life. She lived pursuing dreams that she thought she could have outside of the tribe and that the tribe couldn't provide for her. Whether that was a career as something glamorous in the world of entertainment, whether she was a jazz singer or a model or any of those things. Obviously, there were some deep, deep trauma that occurred to her while she was gone. And she realizes that she needs to get back to the tribe in order to fix herself.

[7:41] Mike Abrams: Yeah. It's interesting to hear you say that because the fandom piece especially, because there is so much and that's what's become interesting. So how did you marry what you were able to read online or hear from my show or all this other different things that you can listen to and read versus your own personal experience and your own character building?

[8:01] Elise O'Connell: Sure. So I think the fact that I came at this show not having been someone who grew up seeing it for years, and I didn't grow up with the VHS tape that so many people have here in David O'Hara. I was able to come sort of as an outsider on it, which is what brings in an outsider of the tribe. She's isolated and coming into it. I think that different bits, I think I think it's helpful for the character.

[8:40] Mike Abrams: Yeah, completely true. I mean, it's almost like the isolation helps because there is that's the story arc like that is being out and then being welcomed back and kind of being brought back in. I want to go a little bit about now the being on the boat. Obviously, you're towards the end of your year in your contract. So you've had all the experiences doing this. So I want to start by asking a little bit about boat life in general, because you do this show twice in a week, right? Or maybe three times in a week, but it's not three times in a week.

[9:08] Elise O'Connell: OK, but it's not for, again, a paid audience. So what's the audience experience like on the cruise with this material? Like it's a very well-known musical, but it's it's a different musical and also somebody who's on there not for the musical. They're there for a cruise.

[9:27] Elise O'Connell: Yeah. So we have something that I think is really helpful for the shows on both sides of the stage and TV screen that show our bios and our headshots. But along with that flood show, there's an idle digestible paragraph that kind of gives what people are getting into. It gives some history on, you know, the stats of how long it ran on Broadway and on the West End, but it also just gives a plot in one paragraph or less. And I think that is really helpful. And then when we talk to the cast of Dumb and Dirty, leading up to the show, often they'll say, OK, what do we need to know going into the cast? We'll say we have to take it for what it is. Don't overthink it. And if you overthink it, then, you know, you get a little lost and completely understand that. But when people take it at face value, they tend to love it.

[10:24] Mike Abrams: Yeah. What's that paragraph say? What's the one paragraph plot of Cats that's that's put on the wall?

[10:31] Elise O'Connell: I know I see it when we're warming up for the show every day. So I know it starts off talking about the T.S. Eliot collapse and talking about people need to go to the Habitat Glare and that one cat will be reborn when chosen. So something along those lines, I know that's suggested it. But if you take that paragraph for what it is, you know exactly what you're getting into in the show.

[11:01] Mike Abrams: Yeah. Well, I love your advice to just go in and embrace it for what it is. And that's what I always tell people who are seeing it for the first time is it's really good dancing. It's really catchy music. If you try to overanalyze the plot, you might pull your hair out. But it's a pretty simple plot if you really think about it in the most basic terms.

[11:18] Elise O'Connell: Absolutely. It's always funny to me being at the show because the kids understand it so quickly and because they're not overthinking it. They're just seeing the show, taking it in and embracing it because they don't know any better to overthink. And it's really fun to watch that experience. It's just there. Just get it.

[12:02] Mike Abrams: From a cast standpoint, you obviously are doing a show that puts you very close together and then you're living very close together. So what is that like? Are you building an even further plot line in the Cats by just the inherent nature of what your experience is like? Like, are there Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer even closer together because they have to be down in the bottom of the ship sleeping in close quarters together too?

[14:52] Elise O'Connell: Yeah, I mean, I would say we're very lucky with our cast that there are 22 of us and we all like each other. And when you live and work together, that's not always going to be the case. And aside from just being good co-workers, we're all friends, which is really lovely. But we all figured out very early on in the whole process just how to live together and how to enjoy our time together. So we have, yeah, a lot of close personal relationships in the group, but I don't think there's a single person in our cast that I couldn't go to lunch with and have two hours of a long time.

[15:28] Mike Abrams: That's amazing. That definitely makes it feel more like a family and a tribe and probably makes your performing easier too because you have those relationships already pre-built to make it a little bit more free-flowing, which is great. We're going to take a quick break and then we'll be back for more of The Wrong Cat Died. I want to hear fun stories because I know that things do not always go smoothly on the cruise. And even though this was built around the stage, I was told that this boat was actually built around this mechanics to bring you to the Heaviside Layer. But what are those wild, memorable stories? Let's hear a bunch of the ones that are funny, crazy, memorable, either from your cast, from you, from the audience. What are you going to never forget from your time on this ship?

[16:14] Elise O'Connell: Oh gosh, so many things. I mean, the first thing that comes to mind, there's not even my cast that needs a preview, but a perfect story for how living on a cruise ship and doing a show goes. We have code words and things that come over the loudspeakers on the ship, whether there's any kind of emergency going on. And a medical emergency on our ship is a code alpha. And our last cruise, Isabella, who you spoke with, was in the middle of "Memory," was on the floor. And as she got up, there was a code alpha that happened. So it came over the loudspeaker. Whenever that happened, our music cut out, our mics cut out. And the show doesn't necessarily have to stop, but everything in your body goes on muscle memory and almost on a toilet to work hard to make sure that you're happy.

So make sure we're on the floor. Code alpha happened, stood up, and just magically the mics came back in on the touch screen. And I've only heard this story, not seen it in itself, but I can't imagine a better ship life experience there. And I'm sure she's going to have that video for Jurassic World.

[17:30] Mike Abrams: That is amazing. That's like incredible timing, like the most dramatic moment you can get, having it cut out and then cut right back in on the perfect moment. What about for you?

[17:45] Elise O'Connell: For me, I don't think I've had any super crazy moments. I guess another ship life situation that we in our cast don't have any offstage swings. So whenever there's a situation of someone in the cast of 22 who has gone down, whether it's illness, injury, whatever the case may be, we do a reblock. So we've had many moments where in the opening, there's a section of it called "Strut," where we're all walking in a circle. And the first thing that always happens when one person goes down is that Grizabella is walking alone. So I go alone in "Strut." So that's happened several times. And it's a testament to how strong our final dancers are when they have to jump in. And aside from jumping into a track, a completely different path, they're covering different bits.

So you'll have Alonzo covering parts of Cassandra's track in the ball or different bits during mobile interactions. So nothing crazy, I don't think it's happened. But little things like that, that you realize how grateful you are for the company that you're with.

[19:02] Mike Abrams: Yeah. So you don't have swings, but what happens if a Mistoffelees is out? Is there a cover, basically, like Alonzo, Tumblebrutus, or somebody comes in and does it?

[19:11] Elise O'Connell: Yes. So we have basically every track, for the most part, has two covers. So in that case, we have our Pouncival and our Coricopat that cover Mistoffelees. So then other people would slide in and cover Pouncival bits if he's on as Mistoffelees throughout the rest of the show.

[19:30] Mike Abrams: Interesting. Okay. So it's just go down a person, but they fill in. So that way, the songs and stuff still go on.

[19:37] Elise O'Connell: Exactly.

[19:38] Mike Abrams: I wish you just like, you should just pull an audience member up. They're like, "Hey, we're one cast short today. Who wants to dance this part of the ball here right now?"

[19:47] Elise O'Connell: I always joked during an install that I was the 25th cover of Mistoffelees. So three audience members before me.

[19:56] Mike Abrams: Yeah, yeah, yeah. There's a long line of people before you wanting to do those turns. Has there been any kind of wild audience interactions after or during of not knowing what they were walking into or just approaching you after having seen you do it?

[20:18] Elise O'Connell: So we've had some wonderful moments of both people that didn't know what they were getting into, but then also just big cast fans that come on the ship. We've had some people who come with the costume and makeup. We've had people who have just been cast fans for life that haven't been able to see the show in person before. But one of my, I think my favorite interactions that I had, we had a young girl who was on the ship for three weeks with her family, and she's a big musical theater fan. I'm really seeing that and she kind of got to know us through the time being on the ship. And we were able to bond with her quite a bit. And after seeing us and experiencing life on the ship and time with us, she said that it kind of convinced her to pursue her dream of going into the tech side of theater, which was really cool. And just really special moments like that, that you can't take for granted.

[21:19] Mike Abrams: When you have the Cats superfans come on in Cats cosplay, are they aware that it's a 90-minute version?

[21:28] Elise O'Connell: Mostly, I think so. I don't think we've had anyone come on and be shocked about it, at least as far as I know. But I think we do a good job of making sure it's advertised and it's 90 minutes. We have an app that you use when you're on the ship and it'll tell you the time of everything that you're going to about how long you're done. So I think when people see that, they kind of put two and two together.

[21:52] Mike Abrams: Okay. I'm just imagining somebody coming in in full Bustopher Jones costume and then just being shocked that he's not there.

[21:59] Elise O'Connell: Or the full song for them. But we would take a picture of them in between shows. Let them come on. Add 95 minutes. Let's add the one more song back. We can do it.

[22:08] Mike Abrams: Oh, I miss Bustopher. That one would be fun. What is the... Again, having not had the experience, is there parts of that that you wish you kind of had the extra hour of the show? Or are you happy to not have to do some of these parts and perform it three extra times?

[22:26] Elise O'Connell: I guess it would probably be an easier question for most of the dancer tracks, because for me, almost nothing of mine is cut. And just the ballet that's before "Little Memory" is really the only thing that's cut. And I do think it would be interesting to add that bit back in because it adds quite a layer for the children. But it is fun. I, in place of that, I do stand backstage, aside from the one bit that I am in the ball. I watch the ball every single night. And aside from just wishing that I could do that, it's amazing to watch my friend, she did it every single night and see how unbelievably talented they are. But to watch the story that they're making, executing choreography, they're all acting and telling a story. And it's beautiful to watch. So to be able to watch that and then go on and do "Little Memory" is really special. So I don't know if I'm in much of the early tones of the show as it is, but I'd be curious to see the fall break.

[23:37] Elise O'Connell: A big part of this show has obviously been theories. And I love the, as you said, that you can read so much stuff online and can pull together to tell your own backstory, but it is left a little open-ended for you all. So I'm curious, you gave me your Isabella kind of parts. What are other things that your cast has added to the lore that you could share? What are some other parts that maybe aren't exactly sources of truth for this show that...

[24:04] Elise O'Connell: My favorite word that Grizabella has is "indomitable." She’s been beaten down and is not afraid to continue to stand back up.

[24:34] Elise O'Connell: I performed the T. S. Eliot poems in high school, and that was my introduction to CATS. I remember being so fascinated by the characters and the stories.

[24:50] Elise O'Connell: When I got the opportunity to play Grizabella, it was like a dream come true. I never thought I would be able to embody such a complex character.

[25:10] Elise O'Connell: One of the fun stories from the boat is how we interact with the audience. They come in with their own expectations, and it’s always interesting to see their reactions.

[25:30] Elise O'Connell: Before the show, we share a paragraph with the audience that tries to explain the plot of CATS. It’s a challenge to condense such a unique story into just a few sentences.

[25:40] Elise O'Connell: The audience often has questions about the Jellicle Ball and the characters, which makes for some great conversations after the show.

[26:00] Elise O'Connell: I love how each performance is different. The energy of the audience can really change the atmosphere on stage.

[26:10] Elise O'Connell: Grizabella’s journey is so relatable. Everyone has moments in their life where they feel like they don’t belong, and I think that resonates with people.

[26:30] Elise O'Connell: The music is also a huge part of what makes CATS so special. The way it captures the emotions of the characters is just incredible.

[26:50] Elise O'Connell: I’ve had the chance to meet some amazing fans on this cruise. Their passion for CATS is inspiring.

[27:10] Elise O'Connell: It’s also interesting to see how different cultures interpret the show. We have guests from all over the world, and their perspectives add a new layer to the experience.

[27:30] Elise O'Connell: I think Grizabella’s story is about resilience. No matter how many times she gets knocked down, she keeps getting back up.

[27:50] Elise O'Connell: I’ve learned so much from playing this role, not just about acting, but about life and perseverance.

[28:10] Elise O'Connell: The camaraderie among the cast is also a highlight. We support each other, and that makes the performances even more special.

[28:30] Elise O'Connell: I often reflect on what Grizabella represents. She’s a symbol of hope and redemption, which is something we all need to remember.

[28:50] Elise O'Connell: The experience of performing on a cruise ship is unique. The setting adds a different dynamic to the show.

[29:20] Elise O'Connell: I love hearing the audience's reactions during the show. It’s a reminder of why we do what we do.

[29:40] Elise O'Connell: Each performance is a chance to connect with the audience in a new way, and that’s what keeps it exciting.

[30:00] Elise O'Connell: I think the message of CATS is timeless. It speaks to the human experience in a way that is both profound and entertaining.

[30:30] Elise O'Connell: I’m grateful for the opportunity to share this story with so many people. It’s a privilege to bring Grizabella to life.

[30:50] Elise O'Connell: I hope that audiences leave the show feeling inspired and uplifted, just like I do every time I perform.

[31:10] Elise O'Connell: The journey of Grizabella is one of transformation, and I think that’s something everyone can relate to on some level.

[31:30] Elise O'Connell: I love being part of a show that celebrates individuality and the beauty of being different.

[31:50] Elise O'Connell: It’s amazing to see how CATS has impacted so many lives. The stories I hear from fans are truly touching.

[32:10] Elise O'Connell: I think that’s what makes theater so powerful. It has the ability to connect people across different backgrounds and experiences.

[32:30] Elise O'Connell: I’m excited to continue this journey and see where it takes me next. Every performance is a new adventure.

[32:50] Elise O'Connell: I hope to keep sharing Grizabella’s story and inspiring others along the way.

[33:10] Elise O'Connell: Thank you for having me on the podcast. It’s been a pleasure to share my experiences with you.

[33:30] Elise O'Connell: I look forward to connecting with more fans and continuing to explore the world of CATS.

[33:50] Elise O'Connell: Remember, no matter how tough things get, we all have the strength to rise again.

[34:10] Elise O'Connell: That’s the essence of Grizabella, and I’m honored to portray her.

[34:30] Elise O'Connell: Thank you for listening, and I hope to see you at a performance soon!

[34:50] Elise O'Connell: Until next time, keep embracing your indomitable spirit!

[35:10] Elise O'Connell: Take care, everyone!

[35:30] Elise O'Connell: Bye!