In 1981 , Dench was due to play Grizabella in the original production of Cats .
In 1981 , Dench was forced to pull out due to a torn Achilles tendon , leaving Elaine Paige to play the role .
In 1981 , Dench was due to play Grizabella in the original production of Cats , but was forced to pull out due to a torn Achilles tendon , leaving Elaine Paige to play the role .