La Cage aux Folles: the beloved musical comedy starring Laurent Lafitte extends its run! - Book your tickets now

A beloved musical comedy makes its grand return to Paris! After captivating audiences at the Théâtre du Châtelet, La Cage aux Folles will now take to the stage at La Seine Musicale from October 30 to November 14, 2026, showcasing a new French production starring Laurent Lafitte! Directed by Olivier Py, the musical reimagining ties the work closely to its roots: the cabaret.

The show tells the story of Georges, the owner of a drag queen cabaret in Saint-Tropez, and his partner Albin, who stars in the act under the name "Zaza." The plot revolves around their son, Jean-Michel, who announces his plan to marry Anne, the daughter of a deeply conservative politician. To prevent a scandal, Jean-Michel asks his parents to pose as a "traditional" family during their introduction to the prospective in-laws. This musical comedy explores themes like acceptance, family, and identity, blending humor with heartfelt moments.

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Based on the eponymous play by Jean Poiret, first premiered in 1973, La Cage aux Folles made its debut on Broadway as a musical in 1983, with book by Harvey Fierstein and music and lyrics by Jerry Herman. After a successful revival on Broadway in 2004-2005, the show was hailed by critics and enjoyed tremendous popularity, winning numerous Drama Desk Awards and Tony Awards, including Best Musical. This beloved musical has been staged around the world and revamped several times on Broadway, earning its status as a classic of musical theatre. After a stellar run at the Théâtre du Châtelet, it now returns to La Seine Musicale, once again starring the talented Laurent Lafitte.

Our Take:

Brace yourself… the legendary Broadway musical La Cage aux Folles has made its way to the Théâtre du Châtelet, and it’s not holding back! Extravagant, daring, and intended for a seasoned crowd, this beloved classic has been revamped with a riot of humor, glitter, feathers, and swirling boas. No need to have seen the films (yes, three French adaptations, including the 1978 original and even an American version with Robin Williams!) to be swept away by this cabaret where playful madness and satire reign supreme.

At the heart of this grand celebration, Laurent Lafitte is almost unrecognizable as Zaza, aka Albin — the flamboyant diva and irresistibly charming lead. Actor, dancer, and now confidently singing (yes, he’s singing — and it suits him perfectly!), he exudes tenderness and energy that turn him into the true queen of the stage. But Zaza and his iconic costumes don’t overshadow the troupe: whether grotesque, awkward, or touching, each character shines in their own right, while the dozen dancers, genuine queens, transform each act into a celebration of beauty and eccentricity.

George’s cabaret comes alive before our eyes: backstage, in dressing rooms, alleyways, Saint-Tropez beaches, from Chez Jacqueline’s bar to Zaza’s apartments, every rotating set carries the audience seamlessly from one scene to another without losing momentum. And most importantly, the audience becomes part of the cabaret: interactions, glances, spontaneous remarks… We find ourselves caught up in the game, sharing secrets and witnesses to these vibrant lives — and the surprises that deepen the immersion are plentiful...

Beyond the glamour and glitter, La Cage aux Folles offers a tender yet biting satire of narrow-minded attitudes, filled with comic misunderstandings, unlikely encounters, and lots (and lots) of tenderness. This French version remains a championing of diversity, same-sex parenting, the freedom to be oneself, and most importantly, unconditional love — love that protects, supports, and sometimes challenges. The songs, catchy tunes, and recurring themes boldly champion these values while poking fun at social hypocrisy — all with a smile.

With its 2 hours and 40 minutes plus an intermission, the show takes its time to develop the story, but once the glitter hits the stage… it’s nearly impossible to look away! Funny, flamboyant, generous, and proudly queer, this cabaret is a must-see — a place where laughter, emotion, and the radiant celebration of difference come together.