Judi Dench Joins br the New 'Cats' Movie Dench accompanies 'Cats' newcomerbr Idris Elba for the film adaptation of br the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical. The role is somewhat br of a second chance br for the actress. She was slated to play "Grizabella" in the original West End production in 1981 but br had to withdraw due to an injury. It is expected that Dench br will assume the role of br "Old Deuteronomy" in the film. Other members of the star-studded cast include Ian McKellen, Jennifer Hudson, James Corden and Taylor Swift. In 1983, 'Cats' raked in br seven Tony awards and br ended up running for 18 years.