Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader gets that feline feeling in ‘Cats’ at Casa Manana

By Nancy Churnin
Dallas News
February 27, 2014

Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader and former Rockette Olivia Carter plays Victoria in Cats, opening Saturday at Casa Manana Theatre in Fort Worth. We caught up with Olivia for an email Q and A on her journey from Lake Highlands to the Jellicle Ball.

Q: Where are you from? Was there any point growing up when you thought you would be a Dallas Cheerleader — or a ‘Cat’?

Olivia: I was born and raised here in Dallas. I grew up in the Lake Highlands area and attended Lake Highlands Junior High and High School. Dance was always my main passion and I trained extensively growing up at the Academy of Dance Arts in Allen, TX. My professional career started with concert work and slowly made its way to musical theatre roles. I toured with the Rockettes as a part of the ensemble and have been seen on the Casa stage in their productions of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Evita (as the lead tango dancer) and in Hairspray (as Lou Anne). [photos] The role of Victoria in Cats is an iconic and dream role for dancers. It is an absolute honor to be playing her! I never expected to be given the chance at such a dream role.

Q: What made you want to be a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader?

Olivia: I was inspired to become a cheerleader because of my mother-in-law, [former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders] Kitty Carter. I wanted to continue her legacy with the organization.

Q: Why did you want to be in Cats?

Olivia: I wanted to be a part of the continuing legacy of Cats. It is one of the most well-known and loved musicals of all time. I feel like I will now have a tiny part of its history and that is such an honor!

Q: What’s the most challenging part of being a ‘Cat’? What’s the best part? Do you have a favorite moment in the show?

Olivia: Everything about being a ‘cat’ is challenging: the movement, the acting the singing. You really have to transform yourself. The physicality of the dancing in the show is probably the most demanding part. My favorite moment in the show is my moment with Grizabella in the closing scene.

Q: What do you like best about the cat that you play?

Olivia: I love Victoria because of the dancing she does. My background is primarily dance so it is nice be in a role that relies heavily on that!

Q: What’s next for you? Are you planning on doing any more singing, dancing or acting?

Olivia: Hopefully more roles and more dancing!! I plan on continuing my career as a professional performer.