Skimbleshanks the Railway Cat Part 1 | Cats the Musical

[@rabbit-exe3606]

I know that his little waistcoat and pocket watch are just fun and clever costuming to make him look like a stationmaster but I choose to believe that the people at said station dressed him up in a little cat-sized waistcoat and he absolutely loves it

[@ashlynnheller8400]

I second this idea.

[@The-bi5ry]

I LOVE THIS

[@pinkajou656]

YES.

[@jaceyking5015]

Agreed.

[@theshockinglyeloquentdog9945]

have you seen that Japanese train cat? it's not unlikely they gave him a little vest lol

[@Flashjackmak]

I love how the content of the song is just that he's a friendly cat who likes to be on trains, but the insanely upbeat tone of the music suggests that Skimbleshanks might well be the greatest cat who ever lived.

[@mdsr4328]

That's because Skimbleshanks is the greatest cat who ever lived

[@mr.moviemafia]

m dsr Agreed 😂

[@bellareagan553]

Jack McP he IS the best cat!

[@isaacjones6323]

Are you implying he isnt?

[@Flashjackmak]

@WolfgangLMclain hahaha, you aren't wrong there. Even so, 100% best cat.

[@Fab4Sunrises]

i trust this fictional cat with my life

[@rachelmma]

that is the most accurate comment i've seen all day 😃

[@brittlebone00]

Accuracy 100%

[@alethabreiner1239]

I trust him more than many real people

[@chumpythebunny9000]

his song is a bop... I'm naming my firstborn "skimbleshanks"

[@lampgod3963]

yes

[@jonquilgemstone]

I like how even Old Deuteronomy is so excited to see Skimbleshanks. They probably don't get to see him that often.

[@franciscojcsa6127]

considering he's probably the cat of one of the olden trains stations going north (I.e.: Paddington, Euston, King's Cross, Etc.) he's kind of distant from most theatres in London and St. James

[@sandradermark8463]

@@franciscojcsa6127 when he's not on active duty on a train up north, that is!

[@ohl377]

Considering this is a fictional talking and Singing cat, i suppose he doesn’t get to see anyone. You know this isn’t a true story, right?

[@koink909]

@@ohl377 not the point

[@jonquilgemstone]

@Matilda Atrill Well, the play only takes place during one night.

[@The-bi5ry]

Not to be dramatic or anything but I would die for Skimble

[@vengeance4927]

Same

[@citizenmalkane]

You Will.

[@willfomes406]

So would i

[@quackafied]

who wouldnt

[@jaxofspades9571]

Honestly why not?

[@indynile]

“not all men” you’re right. skimbleshanks the railway cat would never

[@rosenrot234]

not the cat of the railway train

[@oneisarangj]

Lol

[@cannibalisticrequiem]

Yessssss!

[@briyarose5815]

I think about this comment once a day

[@gooeybowser9332]

Get yourself a cat like skimbleshanks the railway cat

[@Robbity]

I love that skimble isn’t even really competing. He just had a song to sing.

[@wolfieisacat13]

old deut isn't ever ACTUALLY going to send him to the heaviside layer. he just wants to see his (adopted, mind you) kid sing.

[@supernovaskies5044]

@@wolfieisacat13 giving all his children an opportunity to be fabulous and attention-receiving

[@xKagryx]

Me: * still crying after Gus's song * Cats: *SKIM-BLE-SHANKS THAAAA RAIL WAY CAT!!!*

[@snoberto0069]

Lol, you are right!

[@stinky6521]

LITERALLY ME RN

[@AlexisAnderson]

Relatable

[@hilariouslookinggen1growli846]

HONESTLY LMAO. That mood whiplash tho

[@0hantise]

ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

[@erikdaniels0n]

The other cats @ Skimble: BOI WAKE UP, YOU AREN’T SLEEPING THROUGH YOUR OWN SONG

[@autumnbriggs1035]

Lol. He was so peaceful too. Poor guy

[@G.Lonnie]

Skimble in response: yer darn tootin I ain’t

[@rosenrot234]

Rumpleteazer has no goddamn right being so cute with the way she mimics Skimbleshanks.

[@ShodaiGojira-xn3xk]

When? I think I missed it

[@rosenrot234]

@@ShodaiGojira-xn3xk Around 1:00 in. Watch as she's behind him

[@gnammyhamster9554]

Rumpleteazer has no right being so cute period

[@Chipperbane]

Pretty sure that's Jemima.

[@rosenrot234]

@@Chipperbane Nope

[@laurazaetz2105]

Whenever Macavity comes it right after this, I always exclaim, "Skimble, you said you wouldn't let anything go wrong!" You were the chosen one, Skimble!

[@ChristHoon]

In the 2019 movie, Macavity was immediately kidnapped Skimble once he's finished his song.

[@MrNoUsername]

Bring order to the railway! Not leave it abandoned!

[@vampirewolf373]

I loved you!

[@tabithathecat]

@@ChristHoon fucker

[@ChristHoon]

@@tabithathecat WTF asshole? I like to talk about the 2019 Cats movie as many times as I wanted! YOU can NOT stop me!

[@Davey647Returns]

“I’d been busy in the luggage vAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAan” That is some perfectly controlled vibrato, sir.

[@opticalyoutube5597]

Time stamp pls? I think I missed it.

[@machokingmatt6307]

@@opticalyoutube5597 0:51

[@opticalyoutube5597]

@@machokingmatt6307 thanks my guy

[@annepearn4545]

His leg is lifted when he sings that part. I suspect Skimbleshank was checking peemail

[@BuBs1970G]

It's pre-recorded, but yes still nicely done. (Incase you didn't know it was)

[@WhiteSwarm]

Why am i thinking about their possible backstories? That Skimble was found all alone as a kitten by a train driver and he brought him inside the train to warm him up and from that moment he lived in the same train, loved by all the staff since he brought happiness in their job, so that they wouldn't start the train until their beloved kitten came aboard

[@dustyrose192]

Apprently the actors get a book about their characters, i wonder if you hit the mark

[@gnammyhamster9554]

That's pretty much implied by the lyrics

[@viktoriaf.1191]

This is so wholesome!

[@ratbagkennedy]

😭😭 this is so wholesome, I love it.

[@val4751]

Not me crying about a comment lol :'(

[@Lyca31]

In the 80s I used to work on the London Underground at Woodside Park. The 'office' was a teeny little hut next to the platform. We had an old station cat. He just kind of made the station his home. I named him Skimble and I emptied a big shelf and made him a bed and I used to bring him chicken and sometimes prawns to eat.

[@sanguivoir6923]

that's absolutely adorable!

[@sofiacarlberg8981]

awwww...

[@Purpie_Slurpie]

that's so heartwarming

[@johnpaulpagaduan1511]

Aw

[@hungbearlover]

I went to Fch I saw that cat

[@KimberlyFaith260]

Skimbleshanks is probably one of the most underrated characters in all theater. I absolutely love him. I have a bit of a bias as to why I love him so much. I have a orange tabby cat, I wanted to be a conductor when I was younger, he is very proper which I love, and part of my name is in his. He is just a friendly cat who greets people on a train. What could be greater?

[@emptyteacup8228]

AGREED He's an underrated boi

[@brittlebone00]

Skimberly

[@possums154]

@@brittlebone00 yes

[@ticklesyoumoistly]

Your name is shanks? Lmao

[@sweetsandcharades8383]

@@ticklesyoumoistly “kimb”

[@charlieorr2875]

the train skimble lives on is just a seritonin factory bruh

[@theamericanyoutuber]

Charlie Orr 😂 The trains emit serotonin...

[@bibbidi4616]

You can’t not smile while listening to this song

[@ashlynnheller8400]

True. Whenever Im down and feeling bad I watch this.

[@yom_yomii]

I can

[@possums154]

challenge accepted EDIT: proud to say i failed this challenge

[@DerHerrMitR]

There's a red tomcat that practically lives at the train station close to my house. Everyone knows him, he's well respected and cared for, and everytime a train approaches, he sits down just behind the yellow line and has this look like "See, I told you the train would be on time"...even when the train is late. :)

[@ashlynnheller8400]

Please say some people call him Skimble.

[@DJfractalflight]

hopegirl518 Ashlynn because you desire it be so, I will say it is so!...that the people, they call him Skimble, orange he is and nimble, sure of himself and oh we...know he’ll be there right-on-time! 🎵

[@zodiackitten6110]

Dude, I think you met Skimbleshanks.

[@DJfractalflight]

ZodiacKitten hi, just noticed your name, ZodiacKitten. Did you know you have a Zodiac inside of you, that is a small mirror of the cosmic one? Yes, in your brain are the twelve houses of the Zodiac--12 cranial nerves that surround the center of your brain, and your third eye/pineal gland, where your soul identity exists. If you focus on the purest loving identity as you can right there in your third eye, it will bring in a pure cosmic light to purify your identity and mind of distortions that are not truly who you are and which disrupt your mind body and emotions. As your third eye receives and beams this identity of pure love, it streams into your 12 cranial nerves and down your spine into your heart center, your core. From that center, your electromagnetic field aura that surrounds your body comes forth like a fountain, pouring outward and recycling back inward. So as you hold your connection to the loving light in your third eye, it will beam down into your heart core and release all throughout your being, bringing that nature of love and balance to you. The cosmic Presence of love then resides with you in your heart center in a very personal way. Your inward zodiac becomes balanced, and when it is, you are able to harmonize with the cosmic forces smoothly, so that beautiful orchestrations of good fortune and synchronicity guide you throughout the day, in your purposes and in love and peace.

[@zodiackitten6110]

FractaLens Portals ...I get the spiritual message...but I already kind of do that, all that spiritual stuff. But that's a personal choice, not at all something I can just be "advised" to do, nor is it the singular "right path." Everyone is free to choose how they'll live their life, and me living mine partially in the way you described is through no advice of your own but my own decision, as it should be for anyone. But none of that is connected to my KZbin account in the first place. It's just my username, dude. Don't take it too seriously? I just came here to watch CATS.

[@judithkronemeijer6079]

Try looking at the relationship between Skimbleshanks and Rumpletezer. They have that uncle and niece relationship and it's adorable!!!

[@coryman125]

The way she follows him around and mimics his dance moves is so adorable honestly

[@judithkronemeijer6079]

@@coryman125 yesss very true

[@amiefortman7220]

Those two are super close in almost every production I've seen--there are a lot of moments in US Tour productions especially where she runs over and hugs him or he's fussing over her and being Such a Dad. It's honestly the cutest thing.

[@oliviaweaver5874]

I think Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer are Skimble's niece and nephew. I love how close Rumpleteazer is with him!!

[@Razzy1312]

Me Today: "These songs from CATS are kind of silly and stupid. I don't get it." Me Tomorrow: "SKIM-BLE-SHANKS THE RAIL-WAY-CAT!"

[@andrewm2970]

@Kelli Garcia electra(aka 5he worried one) was messing around with the brown cat(Cassandra) and he is scolding her and being rewarded

[@andrewm2970]

@Kelli Garcia no not sexual, playfully and he stopped her to he got a coin

[@HawkinaBox]

I thought that when I first saw this a few years ago. My mom had switched to it and I was like "What the heck is this? This is really weird."

[@JAXTAROO]

Honestly YES, looked into Cats just to understand it and after watching this song I have rewatched it more times than i care to admit

[@phastinemoon]

Skimbleshanks is easily my favorite - the song is nice and snappy, and the cat is equally humanized, but also EXACTLY like a real cat might be.

[@bigpapa7645]

I like how invested everyone is in Skimbleshank’s story about the railway office

[@diehounderdoggenalt]

They must be NUMTOTS.

[@tankmaster1018]

00:52 Holy HELL was that vibrato flawless... Man I was not expecting a voice like that to come out of that dude!

[@Sharpe1502]

That’s an awkward vowel too. Frigging spectacular.

[@erikandersen3274]

It's not actually his voice, Geoffrey Garratt was dubbed over in post-production by David Arneil because the director wanted a Scottish accent.

[@Skrapi1999]

I have the honor of playing Skimbleshanks tomorrow night for my school’s production :)

[@ines4982]

Wow! That's so cool I hope you had fun!!

[@DarthSinistris]

Update?

[@cryptid4300]

Good luck break a leg! 👍😁

[@xtian4095]

Marvelous Marvel Fan bit late pal

[@petermcnallt12pm]

Enjoy it...what an amazing character to play!

[@mariposa8430]

Jemima literally has no right being that adorable in the beginning

[@ashlynnheller8400]

Yeah.

[@electrathejelliclekitten8063]

Her singing is adorable

[@eleanorcooke7136]

I love how shocked Victoria looked when Rumpleteazer sneezed. 2:40

[@SarahZ]

This is the only song the movie didn't butcher

[@hecklife6636]

can’t believe tumblr historian sarah z probably watches sideways

[@sweatyskeleton7390]

The only thing the Cats movie I liked was his moustache. Straight up, I'm so angry they managed to improve on his design

[@RanAcid]

omg fresh Sarah Z spotted in the wild

[@myainsel1137]

Yoo it’s Sarah Z

[@flameongamer8534]

what is your most hated song in the cats movie?

[@fynncarter2327]

Skimbleshanks is basically everyone's weird, funny uncle.😄

[@ashlynnheller8400]

A WIZARD And Bustophor Jones is the other uncle that everyone likes bothering.

[@fynncarter2327]

hopegirl518 Ashlynn true...true

[@urban7rat]

and gay :p

[@claudiaisabelortiz4298]

Yes it's free i wish a uncle like shimbleshanks

[@SIXXTYSOMET]

XD

[@Skimbleshanks73]

I have my own skimbleshanks, every single day I am super happy to shout "Skimble! Where is skimble?", whenever he gets his food :]

[@Desecratedhosts]

Wholesome content

[@sanguivoir6923]

this is so adorableeee

[@to_be_tru]

I have one named rum tug tugger

[@manongrootenhuis9411]

Campain to collect all the cats named after cats from the musical 🔽

[@jwhaler82]

XD Cute.

[@zivbartal4160]

The musical: A weird cat who sleeps a lot The movie: a tap dancing cat who can fly upward

[@theamericanyoutuber]

Ziv Bartal Macavity was lifting him up with his magic.

[@homestuck_official]

I mean honestly that's kinda an improvement? Not that there's anything wrong with the musical version, but if you showed me JUST that one song from the movie, where they're dancing like humans and using tapping sounds for the train engine sounds I'd be like "oh cool! New ideas! Yeah I'd change the design but this seems like an ok idea if the creativity is the same for the rest of the movie!" Unfortunately... y'know

[@possums154]

@@homestuck_official i was proud of the directors because of that one scene with skimble tap dancing, but the rest of the entire movie i said no. what were they thinking not at least trying to get the original actors and actresses in the movie.

[@InchonDM]

@@possums154 The dark secret is that that scene was the only one that worked BECAUSE of the tap dancing, because the tap dancer is never going to try to dance _without a beat._ Hooper likes doing this horrifying thing where he has the orchestra follow the actors' lead, which means the actors freestyle all over because they don't have _direction_ or a beat, and then the orchestra has to work six times as hard to keep up, and it's a mess. But you're not going to get McRae, a ballet dancer, trying to dance without a beat! So Skimbleshanks is one of like two songs in the movie that has consistent pace and flows all the way through, and is excellent, compared to all the ones with actors and singers who aren't dance trained, and aren't insisting on having a beat to work off of because they're going along with Hooper's mad idea.

[@hagenmichels6813]

@@InchonDM I see you have watched the new sideways video:)

[@carlitosap1732]

After watching the musical for more times than I know I love noticing the subtle details that happen in the background for example how Rum Tugger only appears in this song for the sole purpose of helping Cassandra come down from the high place

[@ashlynnheller8400]

Theres always new details to notice in this show. Cats definitly makes ot a point to always be in character.

[@DarthSinistris]

I've seen this version of cats countless times, and there are SO many editing/continuity errors

[@skullsoul19]

Rum Tum Tugger doesn't appear that much in other cats' songs, does he? Except Misto's of course...

[@pauluna4769]

he's on stage for the entire song :) he's hiding in the upper right corner :3

[@danceyjohnson1375]

@@pauluna4769 he's so aloof it's great lol you can usually spot his arms hanging over as he watches the rest with that wonderful tomcat distance

[@keplerr1512]

skimble has bde (big dad energy)

[@kennedyaverett7907]

gumshoe Is say he’s more of the weird uncle 🤣

[@raspberrycrowns9494]

you spelled dilf wrong

[@ladyus8265]

bue (big uncle energy)

[@CRYP71D0g]

That’s probably why he’s so comforting to me 🥲

[@ValentinoMarino11]

It’s the accent

[@oliviab4079]

One of the few songs they actually got right in the 2019 film

[@johnkohls5054]

Right.

[@christoffweber6047]

It was great in the film! I had thoroughly checked out until this number, and then it brought me for the rest of the movie.

[@sophiaCorey]

I my self was not a fan of the movie adaptation of skimbleshanks, but that's just my opinion.

[@dylanlancaster3065]

Loved it in the film. The tap dancing! I think the film has been treated a bit harshly. I enjoyed it.

[@JonJonMorales]

Olivia B agreed.

[@ArchetypeGotoh]

The transition from Gus to Skimbleshanks is a legendary tone shift

[@Hinatachan360]

Electra trying to pounce on Skimbleshanks' tail is the cutest thing ever!

[@MrNoUsername]

Time stamp?

[@nadiah6169]

Phantom 2003 i found it,, it’s not Jemima but at 0:48 a kitten pounces when he saunters :)

[@ayzecknozniksid3126]

That's Electra. But yes, you're right, it's adorable!!

[@electrathejelliclekitten8063]

Electra

[@CrowbarWoman]

The way Old Deuteronomy dances at 2:59 makes me smile every time

[@SunsetBlvd13]

The 2019 version of this one is literally one of the only versions I liked from the movie.

[@furrettheferret9562]

Mariana Paredes this,gus and mr mistoffolees where the best in my opinion

[@indynile]

Mariana Paredes mr mistoffelees and this song was the saving grace of the movie

[@gemari]

2020

[@mystic_hero8800]

I argee, out of all the songs in the movie, I really like this song. Sadly, the movie did not meet my expectations.

[@jkareli1954]

I AGREE!!!!!! I even saved it to a Spotify playlist... which I was not expecting to do with this movie

[@Tilairgan]

I just realized the Cars license plate says TSE. T.S. Elliott

[@ichaukan]

Skimbleshanks was a practical cat after all.

[@rickym242]

does it say ALfor andrew lloyd

[@janiegroves-hambidge1392]

Cool

[@vackrakristaller]

IM SOYFACING

[@cormyat07]

For whatever reason, this is the song that sticks in my brain and has to be surgically extracted.

[@oldprincebolkonskyiscrazya782]

Deuteronomy is SO HAPPY when he receives a mouse from Skimble 😂😂😂 it’s so cute

[@danceyjohnson1375]

LOL at 2:18 in the upper right you can see Tugger cheer with the others it's adorable 😂🥰

[@eternalhalloween1]

This is such a great and happy song. And it really releases the tension well before the evil Macavity finally appears.

[@thehirstfamily9532]

eternalhalloween1 who is the cat at the start with old deuteronomy

[@eusouteoria]

It balances the sadness of Gus and the tension in Macavity's song, perfect

[@eusouteoria]

@@thehirstfamily9532 I think it's Jemima

[@ChasehaWing]

Macavity: Alright time to do crime- IS THAT SKIMBLESHANKS THE RAILWAY CAT!!! CHANGE OF PLANS EVERYONE! NO ONE DO *ANYTHING* UNTIL HE'S DONE. *Taps foot*

[@rosenrot234]

Orange tabbys are such friendly little buggers so I love that Skimbleshanks is one.

[@merkules6]

I can see this song being stuck in my head when I'm in a funeral or a really important job inteview.

[@ClownOwO]

His little hops at 1:56 are like my favorite thing

[@furrettheferret9562]

I always consider this song to be the one to cheer you up after Gus’ song. I also just love Skimbleshanks.

[@samanthavictoria3308]

Victoria’s Face at Rumpleteazers sneeze is a mood

[@kennedyaverett7907]

Samantha Victoria I Know Right?!!? 🤣

[@samanthavictoria3308]

AcapElla and K-Sueprano 😂😂😂

[@arwenemeny7124]

Shes like: U Wot m8?

[@MultiFirebunny]

shes like jeez keep your distance 🤣

[@Bee-fr3sk]

1:00 Rumpleteazer copies him SO CUTE

[@adamdonnelly6470]

Sorry to say my first time seeing Cats was the 2019 movie but man, I unapologetically had a good time when this song came on.

[@ashlynnheller8400]

Well at least it brought you here. Is fans have been kind of hiding out.

[@LivPC]

Welcome!! Hope you enjoy Cats and join the fandom 😊

[@possums154]

honestly skimble's song was the only good part in my opinion. i enjoyed the tap dancing

[@ezelfrancisco1349]

Sideways, a KZbinr, said that the reason his number worked was because Steven Macrae, a seasoned ballet-tap dancer, opted to keep the beat, ie kept a click track.

[@guyvanegmond2012]

0:49, one of the kittens tries to grab Skimble's tail. So cute!

[@ashlynnheller8400]

Guy van Egmond I think it was Electra.

[@fynncarter2327]

XD

[@ashlynnheller8400]

Shimbleshanks the railway cat Looks like your a favourite of the the kittens

[@danceyjohnson1375]

Anyone else going Tugger spotting? Lol he settled into the upper right at one point and it's so fun to see the aloof interest he shows in the whole performance

[@JuupelisJaapelis]

If Skimble doesn't have a Scottish accent in the movie I'm suing someone

[@ihatemyname2816]

Judit Ginzboorg i’ve got some bad news, and a lawyer for you

[@possums154]

i've got some bad news....

[@Vcxnt_dracxlaV]

Eh . . . *Shivers in Australian*

[@parisfrance6503]

@@Vcxnt_dracxlaV What a user my guy

[@CRYP71D0g]

@@Vcxnt_dracxlaV your username 😂

[@neatoburrito3170]

I remember this guy was my favorite as a kid because he wore a vest.

[@sarahrohde7923]

Coricopat's little grin at 2:34 is absolutely adorable!

[@andrewkerfootphotography]

This is somehow the best song to get stuck in your head during an Exam.... still love this though.

[@tokutoshi_chan]

Andrew Kerfoot same here 😂😂😂

[@erinidum]

Moments from this that live rent free in my brain: 0:00 this bitch fell asleep during Gus's song lmao 0:05 Jemima is just so excited to sing about Skimble 0:21 WAKE UP SKIMBLE (my headcanon is that Skimble was supposed to sing that first part but when the cats noticed he fell asleep they were like 'let's wake him up with his own song') 0:33 Coricopat and Tantomile looking down gets me every time 0:39 Rumpleteazer has no right being this adorable all the time 0:48 Electra going for the tail 0:59 Rum Tum Tugger's dangling legs I can't 1:01 I say again, Rumpleteazer has no right 1:08 I just really love this choreo 1:25 Victoria's yawn and stretch looks like it feels so good every time 1:33 I swear, I don't have a crush on Rumpleteazer 1:43 subtle storytelling 1:56 his little hops oml 2:02 I might have a little crush on Rumpleteazer 2:14 the space work in this entire scene clears my skin, cures my depression, and teleports me to a timeline where I can marry Rumpleteazer 2:20 Old Deuteronomy looks like he's so surprised by the "whoo-whoo" but he's laughing super hard at how much it surprised him and I'm here for it 2:39 You already know what I'm going to say... But also, Victoria looks so surprised 2:45 Something about the way Munkustrap leans around Old Deuteronomy to deliver the "weak or strong" just makes my day every time 2:49 I just love the little detail that Skimble has to look up and reach up to tap the guard on the shoulder because Skimble is a cat. It's such a small thing but I adore it 2:52 Admetus (I think? Admetus and Plato confuse me) has complete confidence in Skimble and we should all learn from him 3:06 Don't mind me, just busy worshipping my girl Rumpleteazer

[@nat.serrano]

The beauty of theater is that can rewatch the same play over and over and look for characters and different things you missed....or the new actor might bring new flavors to the act

[@MegatT]

Skimbleshanks the Railway Cat, the Cat of the Railway Train There's a whisper down the line at eleven thirty-nine When the Night Mail's ready to depart Saying, "Skimble, where is Skimble? Has he gone to hunt the thimble? We must find him or the train can't start" All the guards and all the porters And the station master's daughters Would be searching high and low Saying "Skimble where is Skimble for unless he's very nimble Then the night mail just can't go." At eleven forty-two with the signal overdue And the passengers all frantic to a man That's when I would appear and I'd saunter to the rear I'd been busy in the luggage van! Then he gave one flash of his glass-green eyes And the signal went "All Clear!" They'd be off at last to the northern part of the Northern Hemisphere! Skimbleshanks the Railway Cat The Cat of the Railway Train You might say that by and large it was me who was in charge Of the Sleeping Car Express From the driver and the guards to the bagmen playing cards I would supervise them all more or less Down the corridor he paces and examines all the faces Of the travellers in the first and the third He established control by a regular patrol And he'd know at once if anything occurred He would watch you without winking and he saw what you were thinking And it's certain that he didn't approve Of hilarity and riot so that folk were very quiet When Skimble was about and on the move You could play no pranks with Skimbleshanks! He's a cat that couldn't be ignored So nothing went wrong on the Northern Mail When Skimbleshanks was aboard It was very pleasant when they'd found their little den With their name written up on the door And the berth was very neat with a newly folded sheet And not a speck of dust upon the floor There was every sort of light You could make it dark or bright And a button you could turn to make a breeze And a funny little basin you're supposed to wash your face in And a crank to shut the window should you sneeze Then the guard looked in politely and would ask you very brightly, "Do you like your morning tea weak or strong?" But I was just behind him and was ready to remind him For Skimble won't let anything go wrong When they crept into their cosy berth and pulled up the counterpane They all could reflect that it was very nice To know that they wouldn't be bothered by mice They can leave all that to the Railway Cat The Cat of the Railway Train Skimbleshanks the Railway Cat The Cat of the Railway Train In the watches of the night I was always fresh and bright Every now and then I'd have a cup of tea With perhaps a drop of scotch while I was keeping on the watch Only stopping here and there to catch a flea They were fast asleep at Crewe and so they never knew That I was walking up and down the station They were sleeping all the while I was busy at Carlisle Where I met the station master with elation They might see me at Dumfries if I summoned the police If there was anything they ought to know about When they got to Gallowgate there they did not have to wait For Skimbleshanks would help them to get out! And he gives a wave of his long brown tail Which says "I'll see you again! You'll meet without fail on the Midnight Mail The Cat of the Railway Train!"

[@jasminedubois6711]

I imagine Skimbleshanks has gotten to go on lots of adventures and seen many things while on his train trips. That's probably why the other cats are excited to see him because none of them have probably ever been on a train before. He probably tells great stories about what he's seen.

[@Monokyokyo]

Me: *Still crying over Gus* Cats: SKIM-BLE-SHANKS THE RAIL-WAY-CAT Me: .....Oh what that the hell - SKIMBLESHANKS

[@amiefortman7220]

David Arniel (the guy dubbing in Skimble's singing voice) has some of the most satisfying vibrato I've ever heard--I could listen to him all day. XD

[@aikoakuma9840]

1:56 when I'm finally alone in the house

[@JuupelisJaapelis]

I live with a roommate these days and this is my exact reaction.

[@toothpicksinurtoes1598]

1:56 me all the time even when people are home

[@Hinatachan360]

I enjoy Etcetera doing the most in the background so much. She's one of my favorite kittens! 😻

[@thepenguinchaser4514]

i love Skimbleshanks's accent

[@downtown82]

This wasn't the actors actual voice btw. He was dubbed.

[@thatperformer3879]

downtown82 How was it dubbed? This is live theatre bruh

[@niehoe3048]

Jackie Yanish his accent is scottish

[@cloudbusting.heights]

Jackie Yanish I believe the actor was German, and they had him dubbed because his accent was strong

[@cloudbusting.heights]

Thatperformer387 It was staged for a movie. Pretty sure there was no real audience at the theatre.

[@BigTonyPhoenix]

I've always loved this part, I mean I love the musical as a whole, but I feel good when listening to this. If I was ever in this musical, I'd definitely want to be Skimbleshanks. Such a fun song!

[@sarahmansfield9724]

I just adore the way this guy portrays this character! It is so fun!

[@AlexisAnderson]

The guy in the new movie who sings this isn't Scottish but otherwise they stuck true to the original which was nice ♡

[@joaocharneca2119]

That's a good thing. :) One of the few good things that I've heard regarding the new movie is that the characters personalities are exactly like they are in the musical (for me, that's a bonus). :)

[@cicadaplum]

I think they got more inspiration from the '83 Broadway cast, but the scottish accent will forever be iconic.

[@rebeccamartens4192]

How in the fuck does anyone take this shit seriously? I'm being serious... I'm so confused!

[@AryaBeltaine]

that was one of the cutest scenes in the movie.. i loved the tap dancing, it was an adorable touch

[@bibbidi4616]

Rebecca Martens Well, think of it as more of a concert or just a performance than anything else; that’s an easier way to conceptualize Cats. Because if you try and put things together with the plot, you’ll probably loose interest and get confused. Focus on what’s in the moment rather than what it could mean for later on, basically. But even if you do and dislike it, that’s fine because it takes a certain kind of taste to really like this musical. Definitely not for everybody. Edit: Also, the performances themselves are what people is captivated by and why it’s taken seriously. That is what Cats is. You don’t hear anybody talking about how ground breaking the plot is; just the performances. If they were anything less than it is now, this production as a whole would have forgotten by time.

[@friday8644]

at 2:25 Jenny is shaking her head as if to confirm that there was, in fact, no dust 😂

[@Degenerate9205]

Skimbleshanks is a very interesting cat and he is very loyal to the train's passengers and workers

[@isjenjsns625]

If skimbleshanks doesn’t have a bulge in Cats 2019 I’m rioting

[@mystic_hero8800]

I hope so too.

[@hecate1391]

i mean steven mcrae is playing him so there will probably be a bulge lol

[@ashley_says___9026]

Oh my god😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@rat7323]

He has a tap number which is confusing

[@hecate1391]

Miss Jackson yeah but he’s really good at tap so i guess the only exciting part about the new cats is that and sir ian mckellen

[@ivyj.9489]

I would die for skimbleshanks tbh

[@caroldefender4144]

Skimbleshanks is like that fun uncle everyone adores.

[@theprancingpony6075]

I love cats! I can never decide who my favourite cat is but Skimbleshanks is definitely one of my favourites.

[@jasminessomewhere]

The Prancing Pony Same, but I also love Mr Mistoffelees.

[@theprancingpony6075]

Jasmine Dancing Hands Me too. And Munkustrap, Demeter, Bombalurina and Jemima.

[@theelephantpig3662]

My favorite is Rumpleteaser

[@Gabi.Dunkel]

The Prancing Pony my.Favorite.cat is.rum.tum tugger but then.comes skimbleshanks

[@caroldefender4144]

I'd say Skimble is number 5 on my list. Before him would be Jellylorum, Jennyanydots, Rumpus Cat and (drumroll, please) Bustopher Jones. Yes, that's right. My favorite cat is the fat cat that nobody else likes. Hear that?

[@3333EEEErawr]

0:59 I love how jemima is copying him like a little kid

[@rosenrot234]

Rumpleteazer too

[@colinw.805]

Jemima is the youngest of the Kittens, so it does make sense!

[@Broadwaygirl918]

She and rumple are best friends and Skimble is her daddy with Jennyanydots as her mother

[@DrZaius75]

This song has a really good melody.

[@Shiruvi]

SKIM BLE SHANKS THE RAIL WAY CAT

[@kathrynsimpson334]

Probably my favorite song because of the harmonies

[@skittycecil2332]

This brings back memories of when my brother and I were in a junior performance of this show a few years ago. We met a lot of cool people there, and we'd often make jokes about the songs. Occasionally we'd sing this during break, and when we got to the part where they sing "Skimble, where is Skimble?" we'd follow it up with something like: "WHERE IS HE?! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE WITH HIM?!"

[@Houndoomgirl77]

XD

[@samanthacrossley571]

Is this true cool

[@citlalisplayhouse3812]

Skitty Cecil 🐠🐠😃😪😪😶🤑

[@tyler261]

Skitty Cecil I did this in front my school last week

[@skittycecil2332]

Tyler Torres Awesome!

[@kyah3560]

2:20 all the adult cats on the wall looked shook

[@imacarroteu8995]

And Sorry i Just noticed that the Twins are not together!!😱

[@DarthWill3]

Somehow, Skimble reminds me of C-3P0. Maybe it's the way he uses his arms.

[@TheKyrix82]

Don't compare a fun character to 3PO

[@jswatch9270]

@@TheKyrix82 well they're both like that in common if u can tell by that pose

[@RobertsonAdams]

yes, stiff and overacted. perfectly C3p0

[@Lovinia1]

It's the run

[@ghostieghost4158]

Aw I like how the older cats in the back ground look like they’re really enjoying it

[@tegrenath]

this is the only thing in this world that makes sense any more

[@lorendaemon7945]

2:13 Both Cassandra and Rumpleteazer adjust their tails quickly.

[@SuperGingerBickies]

There was a stray cat that made itself at home at the offices of Manchester Airport for years. The staff took it in turns to give it food and attention etc. I guess said cat was a good mouser there, too. I can't remember the name of said cat but it was certainly an 'Airport' Cat!

[@Fjesole]

This cat shit is an absolute banger

[@nitos5582]

I have now decided that this irish accented ginger cat is my favourite.....HIS ADORABLE OH MY GOD

[@c17sam90]

Does he actually run the train station or does he just think he does ?

[@princenaemon]

He thinks he does. He's like those IRL station cats.

[@SpacemanFromHell]

Yes

[@b1randon12]

He's a cat...Cats think they own everything. That's the point.

[@jonquilgemstone]

He's a cat...So of course he runs the whole train station! It's a wonder he could take the night off-just look at him taking his very important scheduled nap remotely!

[@haley1130]

But that's harmony. YES SIRRRRR

[@cosmicnixx7658]

As if they couldn’t make Rumpleteazer any cute they decide to pull this shit 2:39

[@joaocharneca2119]

Jo Gibb does a great job making her absolutely cute and funny. I can't wait to see if they will be able to make her as cute and funny in the movie, along with Mungojerrie. :)

[@imacarroteu8995]

And victoria Is like: shook😳

[@pinkplatypusprincess]

@@joaocharneca2119 They dont, the cuteness is completely drained in the movie.

[@hushbolman]

Bless this cat's accent.

[@lukeb247]

Victoria's reaction to Rumpleteazer's sneezing is hilarious

[@Seven70307]

1:04 - Notice how it's ALL kittens prancing along with Skimbleshanks in that moment. That's literally like a bunch of excited kids dancing with Ronald McDonald all the way to the McDonald's choo-choo train. XD

[@chinieesparrago4633]

1:55 MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE PART!!! LOOKIT HIM JUMPING SO CUTELY!!!! 🥰😍🥰😍🥰😍🥰

[@helenaw302]

Yesterday I went to see the film and not having seen the musical ( only knowing a couple of songs from it ) this was a very pleasant surprise and has been in my head all day lol

[@MrMrRubic]

Look at Victoria when Rumpleteazer sneezes 😂😍

[@jessseal60]

Probably my biggest flex in life is that Geoffrey taught me for a year at my musical theatre associates and said im a standout performer like my ahh .my first musical i saw was cats i loved it so much my parents brought me the pro shot and i watched it so regularly they had buy a second coz id worn it out so now being able to say im mutuals with skimbleshanks like makes my heart happy ❤

[@Charlie-pu9bx]

Just listened to the 2019 film version of this song - bloody hell, what a disaster! And Steven McRae is so talented - he deserves so much better. Coming back here to cleanse my memory!

[@Alyssa-cn6so]

THIS WAS MY CHILDHOOD. Also Victoria, Sillabub, and Etcetera are SO CUTE with their facial expression omg.

[@Cozeguet17]

Best representation of skimbleshanks ever, im right?

[@advicebear67]

Cozeguet17 you could never be more right

[@Bumblybean33]

Did anyone else think the cats said “with a straw!” And not “weak or strong!”

[@advicebear67]

Emily Bober I did for my whole life😂😂

[@ines4982]

I always heard "we go strong"😂

[@Liz-lo3pn]

I heard “he was wrong!”

[@yourfriendlyneighbourhoodb333]

I hear "We've got strong"

[@ClairenotClary]

I always thought it was "We've got some!"

[@beth_elsewhere369]

His accent is just beautiful.

[@saysthefox]

I would’ve died for Skimble at age 10 and I’d do the same at 30.