SHANGHAI - The Chinese version of the Western musical "Cats" is expected to hit the stage in August this year, its producers announced here Thursday.

It will be the 15th language version of "Cats" since it debuted in London in 1981, according to a cooperative agreement signed Thursday between the Shanghai-based United Asia Live Entertainment (UALE) and the Really Useful Group theater company from Britain.

Jo-Anne Robinson, director and dance director of the Chinese version, told reporters that she will make every effort to ensure the original flavor of the musical is preserved in the new version.

The two companies succeeded in staging the Chinese version of the popular Western musical "Mamma Mia!" last year.

Translators are currently working to render the English version of "Cats" into Chinese, and rehearsals are expected to begin in April, said Tian Yuan, general manager of UALE.

After "Cats," the two companies are also considering staging a Chinese version of "The Phantom of the Opera," Tian said.