Tumblebrutus

Tumblebrutus, is a character from Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical, Cats, most commonly an alternate name for the character also known as Bill Bailey. In the Original London Production, the name "Bill Bailey" was used, taken from "The Naming of Cats". In the Broadway Production however, the same ensemble role was named "Tumblebrutus", the name taken from "Growltiger's Last Stand"

Personality
Tumblebrutus is usually portrayed as an adolescent, growing up but still unsure of himself, trying to be one of the big boys like Alonzo and Plato, but still playing with the kittens like Pouncival. Occasionally, this age dynamic of adolescent Tumblebrutus and kitten Pouncival is reversed, making Tumble the youngest tom-kitten.

Role
"Capable of performing successive back handsprings, aerials and other acrobatic feats."

- Casting Calls

Tumblebrutus, appropriate to his name, is the main tumbler of the show, requiring gymnastic skills above any other role. He is commonly the understudy for Mungojerrie.

In many productions, such as Broadway and US Tours, Australia and Hamburg, it is Tumblebrutus who performs the pas de deux (known to fans as the mating dance) during the Jellicle Ball with Victoria. This is tied into his being the other character going through puberty like Victoria is.

Tumblebrutus is the Bosun of the Pirate crew, however the ensemble character was not part of this. When the role was originated on Broadway by Bob Hoshour and in Australia by Stewart Crowley. In the most recent Broadway production the role is played by Andrew Wilson.

In the Japanese version of Cats, Tumblebrutus was paired with Cassandra as the twin cats rather than Coricopat and Tantomile.

Appearance
Tumblebrutus is a white and brown patched tom cat, often depicted in the show as a kitten. Of all the Cats with dual names/personalities, his appearance remains the most consistent, having a distinctive brown patch over one eye, and brown patches on his right shoulder and left hip.

Fandom
For fandom headcanons and theories, CLICK HERE.