Where and When
McLean Community Players present “La Cage aux Folles” at Alden Theatre, McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave. Performances, Jan. 31-Feb. 16. Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays 2 p.m. Tickets are $18-$20. Visit www.mcleanplayers.o… or call 703-790-9223. Note: Audio description services for the visually impaired on Feb. 15.
One of Broadway's biggest hits, "La Cage Aux Folles" is coming to the Alden courtesy of the McLean Community Players. The long-running musical won six Tony Awards including Best Musical and Best Score when it originally appeared on Broadway. Its two Broadway revivals since have also garnered Tony Awards.
McLean Community Players will give local audiences the opportunity experience its award-winning musical score and memorable characters.
The storyline centers around Georges, the owner of a popular drag nightclub, and Albin, the club’s star. They have been partners for many years. They have raised a son together, Jean-Michel, who has just announced his engagement to Anne, the daughter of a rather conservative politician. The engagement throws everything into topsy-turvy turmoil. All is presented with a big smile and a bigger heart.
"La Cage" was written by a Broadway dream team of Harvey Fierstein, Jerry Herman and Jean Poiret. The original production was directed by Arthur Laurents.
The McLean Community Players production of "La Cage" with a cast of 25, is directed by veteran actor and director Hans Bachmann. “'La Cage aux Folles' at its heart, is a story about family and the sacrifices that parents make to ensure their children's happiness .... It is a story most everyone can relate to."
Musical director John Edwards Niles will have an orchestra of 10 to perform the score of 16 songs. Choreography is by Duane Monahan.
Show song titles include "I Am What I Am" with a lyric "I am my own special creation." and "Look Over There" with the line, "How often is someone concerned with the tiniest thread of your life? Concerned with whatever you feel?"
Cast member Tim Adams (Jean-Michel) called “La Cage” “just a wonderful story about an everyday loving family." Actor Christopher Furry (Albin) said, "everyone can relate to this show ... it is just so sincere in telling about people who care for each other in a centered relationship."
Harv Lester (Georges) said audiences will find it an "hilarious show about a strong family relationship. It is a little over-the-top but so easy to enjoy."
“La Cage's” previous community theater production in the area was about a decade ago. Inviting audiences to see the optimistic "La Cage aux Folles," actor Lisa Anne Bailey called it a show about an "accepting family and not just about feathers and glitter."