La Cage aux Folles

This touching, hilarious and sparkling musical was a theatrical sensation when the film (of the earlier play) first hit the screen in 1978.    It was ahead of its time then and I submit has played no small part in shaping the more enlightened attitude we enjoy today concerning "alternative" life styles.

To do full justice to this great musical, set in Saint Tropez, is a Herculean task and one in which director John Harries-Rees has succeeded brilliantly.    A sumptuous feast like this requires a master chef and a kitchen full of magic ingredients.   This was cordon bleu at its finest.

Two marvellous leads, Robert Jordan as night club owner Georges and his "feminine" partner of 20 years Albin played by Stephen Chalkley were at the centre of this show.   Both these gentlemen have played the roles previously and were therefore extremely well versed.   Each played their part with great skill showing their love for each other and the pathos of the delicate position in which they find themselves.    Stephen and Robert both had fine voices too and brought to life the emotions behind their several songs.   Everyone knows "I am what I am" and "The Best of Times" which were stunningly good, but equally good for my money were Albin's "A Little more Mascara", "Song on the Sand" and "Look over There" by Georges.  

The nine female glamourous dancers Les Cagelles were actually five girls and four boys - and what legs they had too!   They and their dance routines, which were superbly choreographed by Louise Wilson were sensational   Their names alphabetically - Matthew Beacham, Cheryl Blyth, Louise Camby, Melanie Dunn, Jamie Harris-Knapp, James Kemp, Kate Morris, Jordan Puttock and Karen Ward (who was also assistant Choreographer).   Girls, you were simply smashing!

Deliciously camp and highly charismatic was the butler / maid Jacob, played with enormous relish by Danny Willis with heels, legs and attitude.    Jean-Michel, George's son, played by Jaco Botha brought his boy next door looks and lovely tenor voice to the role reminding his father that he was 24 and not still 20.   His pretty wife to be Anne, was played with assurance and natural glamour by Amy Watkins.

Anne's parents, with Michael May as right-wing Monsieur Dindon and Jenni Hallett as his wife, brought necessary dignity and angst to the roles and were suitably perplexed and appalled as the charade unravelled.   This contrast between the traditional restraint of the conservative right and the liberal alternative lifestyle of the nightclub family is at the heart of what makes this such a compelling story.   The Director must take great credit for the hilarious and touching way in which this was brought out in the actors' performances.

Three other principals deserve praise; the harassed stage manager (pursued by one of the taller "Girls") Francis,  "worriedly" played by Kim Hill.    The important part of Jacqueline the sympathetic and charismatic restaurant owner, was played with panache by Jo Pandolfi.   Georges elegant  and stylish "real" wife Madame Renaud was played by Mandy Harris.

Clever use of the townspeople on the promenade, cafe and in particular chez Jacqueline allowed a talented and well drilled chorus to enhance this sparkling production.

Musical Director Colin Copestake was always in full command of the splendid orchestra which supported the fine singing admirably.    Costumes, particularly important in this show, were hired from Triple C Costumes and Judy Kelly on wardrobe made sure that everything fitted and suited beautifully - she also supplied the wigs.  The programme was well designed and informative.

Leatherhead Operatic are about to collect a NODA award for last year's "South Pacific" which it richly deserves.   This "La Cage|" loses nothing by comparison.    Finally may I thank the Society for inviting me to review this highly enjoyable show and for the warm welcome Sue and I received.

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