How you respond to this version of La Cage depends a lot on how you feel about Harvey Fierstein. This role is quintessential Harvey and if you buy into his mammoth presence then you will love his magnanimous heart. Christopher Sieber's measured performance helps to balance the more farcical characters that fill out the show. Though I think the play lacks the heartbreaking subtly of the original Broadway staging and of the French film, it's a good time at the theater.

I don't know how I got roped into seeing another musical. Yuck. I had fairly low expectations going in to see La Cage Aux Folles, although I was slightly optimistic that Kelsey Grammar would give a decent performance, and that the show could have potential as a comedy. Unfortunately, my optimism was unwarranted. The show was a pretty typical broadway musical. If you like traditional musicals, you'll probably enjoy this one.

The entire first act is wasted introducing a son, his father, and his father's transvestite partner. The son is engaged to a a girl whose parents are traditionalists, and that sets the stage for the second act when the parents meet. The comedy during the first act seemed very juvenile, and mostly consisted of "Let's dress men up in womens clothing, and make jokes about their 'balls'". I remember making similar jokes when I was seven years old. The second act was more enjoyable, but didn't make up for the stupidity of the first.

Some of the singing was pretty good, and on par with other broadway shows. ...but I still couldn't relate to all the people who thought it was hilarious seeing men prance around in lingerie.

Having seen the last revival which was good, but not great, I was skeptical, and Doug Hodge had already won the Tony and I was wondering how this role had carried to best actor on Broadway. I was surprised and amazed at how good BOTH Kelsey Grammar and Doug Hodge payed their roles. Hodge deserved the award. This show is well worth seeing.