BWW Reviews: LA CAGE AUX FOLLES at Norrbottensteatern

LA CAGE AUX FOLLES is one of those classic shows I've heard of so many times, but never actually seen. The only thing I knew about the show was the translation of the title "LA CAGE AUX FOLLES" which means "The Cage Of Mad Women" (Thanks to my 7 years in French class.)

Based on the 1973 French play of the same name LA CAGE AUX FOLLES tells the story about the middle-aged homosexual couple who reside in Saint-Tropez, George (played by Roger Storm), the owner of the drag nightclub "LA CAGE AUX FOLLES" and his partner Albin (played by Mikael Odhag), the performer of the nightclub who goes under the alias of "Zaza". Their son, Jean-Michel (Filip Tallham), George's illegitimate offspring from a one night stand is getting married to Anne Dindon, daughter of the conservative leader or "Tradition, Family and Morality Party". Therefore, they are forced to take drastic action to hide their sexual orientation in order to meet the family of their son's fiancé...But the question is if they can keep it up?

The Tony award winning show was a raging success on Broadway and several international runs considering the fact that it was set up in the 80s, during a time when homosexuality had yet to become as acceptable as it is today. A time when it was mostly kept underground.

The company of Norrbotternsteatern delivered a funny, believable and heartfelt show. Mikael Odhag is absolutely fabulous as Zaza, and Roger Storm who I saw in the last local theatre seasons production of the play "Frankenstein" continues to shine, and this time with a fantastic singing voice as well. The ensemble, collectively known as "Les Cagelles" are absolutely dynamic on stage with their great but crazy choreography that makes the show fun and lively. Each and everyone of them deserve a round of riotous applause!