La Cage aux Folles opened on Broadway, Jerry Herman and Harvey Fierstein‘s Tony-winning work is having a moment that establishes the musical as both a period piece and a celebration of queer joy.
Based on the 1973 French play of the same name that was adapted into the groundbreaking 1978 French film, the success spurned the creation not only of the 1983 Broadway musical but also a Hollywood movie remake, The Birdcage, starring Robin Williams and Nathan Lane.This new incarnation marks the show’s London return, but this time with a twist.
It’s playing at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, a unique venue tucked away among the woodland in one of the UK’s capital’s most stunning parks.
The uncertainty of a British summer definitely adds a frisson of unpredictability to any performance (the first press night was canceled after 45 minutes due to heavy rain, and Queerty returned a few days later to enjoy the whole show).Given its various incarnations, you’re probably familiar with the plot.