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I absolutely love that New York City Center chose to end its ENCORE! Series with an all-Black production of “La Cage Aux Folles,” now playing through June 28. It is appropriate and phenomenal that this musical is running during Pride month, since it is a touching, powerful tribute to the LGBTQIA+ community. Starring an amazing cast and with a book by Harvey Fierstein and music and lyrics by Jerry Herman, this musical is a clarion call declaring the love, beauty, and power of the LGBTQIA+ community, which also looks at the discrimination and bias that are held against this wonderful community of people who are just trying to live their lives. West 55th Street is the place to be to experience this extraordinary production.
Audiences have been loving “La Cage Aux Folles” for decades, which explains why New York City Center was completely packed to the rafters. Of course, another factor is a tremendously beloved cast which touches the heart, makes you laugh, and definitely makes you cry.
It is marvelous to see Billy Porter back on stage in the role of Albin. In every poignant, emotional moment of this musical, Porter demonstrates his passion, his power, and his appreciation for life. When he sang “Mascara,” my heart was breaking; his performance of “I Am What I Am,” in Act One, literally had me in tears, as this song takes place when he feels abandoned by his loved ones. In Act Two, when he sings “Best of Times” with Jacqueline and the Patrons at her club, I was also in tears. When I think of Porter’s health issues in 2025 and I see him on that stage in 2026, I see a person who has overcome so much and is definitely here to bring joy to people.
Wayne Brady plays Georges, and he executes this role with such love, kindness, compassion, and humor. I must admit I was in tears when he sang “Look Over There” to Jean-Michel with regard to Albin. The chemistry between Porter and Brady is electric, and their vibe is delightful to see and embrace. Both Porter and Brady floored you with every song.
Alaman Diadhiou is charming and entertaining as Jean-Michel. Rachel Webb is delightful as Anne. James Jackson Jr. has just the right amount of mouth and sass as Jacob, the maid. Michael McElroy is sexy and funny as Francis. Peter Francis James is amusing as Edouard, Anne’s father. Sharon Washington is marvelous as Marie, Anne’s mother. Tonya Pinkins is gorgeous, funny, and on fire as Jacqueline. She is such a magnificent talent; I love to see her in any production because she always comes with such a beautiful, energized spirit. As Jacqueline, who owns an exclusive restaurant, she plays a big part in getting Jean-Michel and Anne to be permitted to be together by Anne’s father. I’ll say no more. Lance Coadie Williams is quite memorable as Renaud, the café owner.
The fact that this musical touches the heart the way it does does not surprise me, since this musical has very loving, compassionate, and skillful direction by Robert O’Hara. It features exciting choreography by Edgar Godineaux, splendid and riveting tap choreography by Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards, music direction by Joseph Joubert, and features The Encores Orchestra.
“La Cage Aux Folles” has a splendid ensemble cast that you will thoroughly enjoy. There is also stunning costume design by Clint Ramos and Michelle Ridley. The musical features scenic design by David Zinn, lighting design by Adam Honore, sound design by Megumi Katayama, and hair and wig design by Robert Pickens.
The “Best of Times” truly are now and it’s at New York City Center. For tickets, visit nycitycenter.org.
