Theater Review: 'La Cage Aux Folles' at Music Theatre of CT

The grand finale of Music Theatre of Connecticut’ 38th Mainstage season is “La Cage Aux Folles,” continuing in Norwalk through Apr. 19.

Director Kevin Connors, the executive artistic director and co-founder of the venue, calls “La Cage” a “groundbreaking, glamorous and deeply moving musical..with show stopping numbers, dazzling spectacle, and a heartwarming story at its core, this production is a celebration of love, commitment and family.”

With a book by the one and only Harvey Fierstein and music and lyrics by Jerry Herman, the musical version was inspired by the 1973 French play by Jean Poiret, its film adaptation in 1978 and the subsequent 1996 American remake titled “The Birdcage.” The Broadway show won five Tony Awards and has been revived three times, most recently in 2010.

Connors reminds the audience that this show was “the first musical to place a loving gay couple at its center, treating them not as a punchline, but with dignity, joy and humanity…It’s about the shared experiences of longtime love, marriage, and parenthood.” Under his direction, the story is heartwarming, touching and very funny.

Scott Mikita, who was part of “Phantom of the Opera on Broadway for more than 20 years, brings tremendous charm and wit to the role of Georges, the owner/master of ceremonies of the popular nightclub. The actor, who displays his great singing voice, has previously appeared on this stage in “Georgia McBride,” “Ghost” and “White Christmas.”

Frank Mastrone dons several wigs to become the aging star of “La Cage Aux Folles,” the fabulous drag queen Zaza, in the leading role of Albin in his sixth MTC production. He is even charmingly transformed onstage during “(A Little More) Mascara” by the Les Cagelles. Mastrone does well with all of the details that his role demands and ad libbed with an animated patron in the front row.

Cedric Leiba Jr., who was part of “La Cage” at Goodspeed Musicals, shines in this Equity cast in the role of butler/maid Jacob. Leiba is hysterical in this delicious role and steals most of his scenes.

Zachary Anderson returns to MTC to play Jean-Michel, the 24 year old son Jean-Michel raised by Georges and Albin. Brianna Bauch, who appeared in “Jersey Boys” and “Rocky Horror,” also returns to grace this stage in the role of the young man’s adoring fiancée. I only wished that she had more stage time in this role.

Laura Austin doubles in the role of Marie Dindon and Mme. Renaud in her MTC debut. Sam Brackley dances as a Cagelle and plays Etienne. Cameron Edris seems to have the most work switching between Cagelle and the owner of the Promenade Café, Mssr. Renaud, all while serving as the dance captain. Daniel Pahl makes his MTC debut as a Cagelle, and Venezuelan-American actor Pablo Pernia rounds out the fabulous group of Les Cagelles.

Shaylen Harger plays Colette in her MTC debut, and Shannen Hofheimer, who played the role of Morticia with Landmark Community Theatre, has a wonderful stage presence as Jacqueline. Jim Schilling takes on the roles of the stage manager Francis and Tabarro. Lou Ursone, who recently appeared with the New Paradigm Theatre in “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” plays the role of Anne's ultra-conservative father.

Richard Carsey makes his MTC debut as music director, conducting the offstage six-piece band while playing keyboard.

The lovely scenic design by April M. Bartlett toggles between the second floor apartment of Georges and Albin and the St. Tropez nightclub featuring drag entertainment, as well as a Riviera eatery in the summer in France. Lovely tunnels of sheer white fabric change from spotlights for Les Cagelles to curtains for the home. Bartlett also worked on the prop design, assisted by Arielle Silbert. There is very good lighting design by RJ Romeo and sound design by Stephen Emerick.

Costumes designed by resident costume designer Diane Vanderkroef are expansive and sparkly and intrinsic to the story, with the sparkly black and silver gown for Zaza a standout. The looks feature extensive makeup design by Will Doughty, who worked with Peggi de la Cruz on the fabulous wig design. Les Cagelles are blessed with amazing wigs to top their performing ensembles. Choreography by Chris McNiff is big and bold (and includes some tap) for the nightclub performances and quiet and lovely for “With Anne on My Arm.”

“La Cage” is performed with one intermission and runs about two and half hours. Because the actors make use of the aisles throughout the performance, it is recommended that the audience remains in their seats at all times. Performances of La Cage Aux Folles continue through 19 on Thursdays at 7pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 2pm and 8pm, and Sundays at 2pm, but many performances are sold out. Tickets at musictheatreofct.com/la-cage-aux-folles