Old Deuteronomy/Interpretations

Because of the vague and fluid nature of the show, character backstories and portrayals often vary depending on the production and actor. The following are quotes from creatives and cast members on how they interpret and/or portray the character of Old Deuteronomy.

Ken Page
Ken Page originated the role of Old Deuteronomy in the Broadway production, and reprised the role in the 1998 film.


 * On Old Deuteronomy's relationship with the other cats:

"Well he's the Jellicle leader of the tribe that we are in Cats. He's the oldest member and he's probably the father of a lot of them, I think actually."

- Ken Page

Brandon Michael Nase
Brandon Michael Nase played Old Deuteronomy in the 6th US tour.


 * On what Old Deuteronomy is trying to teach the other cats:

"I'm the only person in the cast who is actually a father, who has kids, and I feel like Old Deuteronomy is kind of the dad of the tribe [...] The deeper meaning for him is to show the other cats the error of their ways in shunning Grizabella - to show them without chastising them that you cast this cat out and you judged her. Would you want the same thing done to you? She is one of us. And we have to stick together. We are a tribe [...] He wants them to learn all of that, not from him saying it but showing it - showing them there's a better and more loving way to be."

- Brandon Michael Nase