TheaterWorks has announced the return of Alan J. Prewitt, a celebrated playwright, director, and beloved figure in the Phoenix theater community, to the stage in their upcoming production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cats.

The production will run Sept. 6-22, at Peoria Center for the Performing Arts, 10580 N. 83rd Drive.

Prewitt will be taking on the iconic role of Gus the Theatre Cat, a character whose poignant reflections on his past theatrical glories are sure to resonate deeply with audiences.

Prewitt's theater career spans 50 years, filled with numerous accomplishments and accolades. Like the character of Gus, Prewitt is more than willing to share the tales of his storied career, which includes prestigious honors such as the National Society of Arts and Letters Career Achievement Award and the AriZoni Award for Outstanding Contribution to Theatre.

His journey also includes training with the legendary mime Marcel Marceau and a celebrated portrayal of Benjamin Franklin, showcasing his diverse talents both on and off the stage.

In 1980, Prewitt founded the Cookie Company at Phoenix Theatre, where he served as the artistic director and director of education and access programming for 27 years. Under his leadership, the Cookie Company became a pioneering force in children's theater, producing over 70 original scripts and making theater accessible to all children, including those with special needs.

Prewitt’s deep connection to the Phoenix theater community and his dedication to arts education earned him numerous awards, including the Arizona Theatre Alliance Award for Outstanding Arts Education Programming. After retiring in 2007 to care for his aging parents in Missouri, Prewitt said he is thrilled to be back in Arizona and once again embracing his beloved theater community.

Adding to the significance of Prewitt’s return, Chris Hamby, TheaterWorks’ C.W. McMillin Executive Director and the Director of "Cats," expressed his excitement: "Being able to direct Alan in 'Cats' is a full-circle moment for me. He not only gave me some of my first professional work in the theatre, but he has also been a mentor for years."

This reunion between mentor and protégé promises to bring a special dynamic to the production.

In "Cats," Prewitt steps into the shoes of Gus the Theatre Cat, a role that complements his rich history in the theater world. Gus, short for Asparagus, is an elderly cat who reminisces about his days of theatrical glory, a theme that will no doubt be enriched by Prewitt's own experiences and deep connection to the stage.

"I’m excited to return to acting and particularly thrilled to be part of such a beloved production," Prewitt said. "Gus is a character who embodies the love of theater, and I can’t wait to bring my own history and passion to this role."

Tickets are available at theaterworks.org/cats or by calling the box office at 623-815-7930
(M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.).