"La Cage aux Folles"

This is starting to sound like a broken record, but seriously another amazing evening at the theater here in DC! The production of "La Cage Aux Folles" at Signiture Theater was tremendous.

I saw this show on stage once before with my friend Perri at the Kennedy Center. It was the Broadway Touring Company from the last time it was revived and it starred George Hamilton and Christopher Sieber. It was such fun, and the choreography in particular was Cirque du Soliel athletic. By comparison, this production was better. It was more intimate and more like being at an actual club. The actors were every bit as good and I think, honestly better. The chemistry and comic timing between Brent Barrett (Georges) and Bobby Smith (Albin) was magical. The moment that I knew it was going to be exceptional was when Bobby Smith performed "A Little More Mascara". Every single word was delivered with such meaning and endeared his character to the audience. Another bright spot was DJ Petrosino's portrayal of the over-the-top butler/maid, Jacob. (Having just seen him in the role of Chino in Signature's production of "West Side Story", I was amazed by his range and talents--acting, singing, comedic, physicality...) The Audience was so in sync with the cast. The laughter and the intensity throughout supported the growing crescendo of the story to a magnificent rendition of "I Am What I Am" again by Bobby Smith.

 Brent Barrett (center) as Georges brought such a perfect sense of timing and interpretation to the role from a Broadway resume that included major roles in productions of "Chicago," "Annie Get Your Gun," "West Side Story," "Candide," and "Brigadoon."

 The ensemble was super sexy and super dancers!

 DJ Petrosino as Jacob bantering with Paul Scanlan as the son, Jean-Michel.

 It was "The Best Of Times!"

Brent and Bobby without make-up.