POSING WITH THE CAGELLES: Peter Del Fiorentino, center, stars as Albin in “La Cage aux Folles,” at the Contra Costa Civic Theatre in El Cerrito through July 21. Below, Albin and Dan Kapler (left) as George.
Ben Krantz photos

Theater review by Elizabeth Warnimont
Special to The Herald

CONTRA COSTA CIVIC THEATRE of El Cerrito is currently staging “La Cage aux Folles,” the funny and heartwarming story of a nontraditional family that must re-assess its values and expectations when son Jean-Michel (Daniel Quezada) decides to marry the daughter of a reputedly intolerant politician.

Peter Del Fiorentino is terrific as drag queen Albin, the lead role and key to the success of any “La Cage” production. Del Fiorentino is confident and sassy and has the requisite diva personality down. Dan Kapler is strong and charming as Albin’s straight man — if you’ll excuse the expression — counterpart George, owner of La Cage aux Folles, a drag nightclub. And the dancers! One would think this troupe of “Cagelles” came to audition together as a group, they are so well tuned to each other, and comfortable and lithe in all of their costumes (by Lisa Danz).

The most fun in “La Cage” is in the song and dance, and this troupe delivers. Standouts include “(A Little More) Mascara,” in which Albin delights in his trade, seated at his vanity mirror with mascara and rouge; “With You on My Arm,” a love song sung by both gay and straight couples; and of course the core message-bearer, “I Am What I Am,” sung with infectious joy by Del Fiorentino.

In the second act, as Jean-Michel (Daniel Quezada) finally realizes the folly of his hurtful behavior, he sings a heartfelt and moving “Look Over There,” dramatically expressing his love and acceptance to his male stepmother:

“When your world spins too fast, And your bubble has burst, Someone puts himself last, So that you can come first … And when you have added the loves Who have loved you before, Look over there … Somebody loves you more.”

Director Christina Lazo choreographs several excellent routines for the Cagelles, who in turn demonstrate skill and poise as they execute the moves. “La Cage” was written in the spirit of fun, not confrontation, and the acts are accordingly quite clean. It’s all about love and acceptance, so audiences are invited to share in the fun as the men in dresses dance and cavort, expressing genuine affection in the true spirit of the play.

Just about every player shines in this production. Lavalle William-Davis is hilarious as Jacob, Albin and George’s butler who protests triumphantly when he is asked to play it straight for Jean-Michel and his new fiancée Anne (Melissa Heinrich), tossing luggage and provoking Anne’s parents (John Sellen and Sue Claire Jones as M. and Mme. Dindon) at every turn.

Suzie Shepard is a kick as Jacqueline, owner of the upscale Chez Jacqueline. There’s plenty of room for camp in “La Cage,” and Shepard plays it well, rivaling Del Fiorentino’s panache with her quick wit and over-the-top affectations.

Contra Costa Civic does great justice to the play, offering up quality music and choreography to enhance a strong and well-synchronized cast. The story remains relevant today, 30 years after its Broadway premiere in 1983.

Perhaps the message of “La Cage” goes beyond sexual orientation. As it is so beautifully expressed in “We Are What We Are,” maybe it’s really all about accepting others as we accept ourselves.

If You Go
“La Cage aux Folles” continues at Contra Costa Civic Theatre, 951 Pomona Ave., El Cerrito, through July 21. Tickets are $15 to $27 and are available by calling 510-524-9132 or online at ccct.org.

Elizabeth Warnimont is a freelance writer specializing in the performing arts. She is also a substitute teacher for the Benicia Unified School District.

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