The Fountain Hills Theater opened to a full house last Friday, Jan. 22, with another showstopper, “La Cage Aux Folles.” Loosely translated this means “the cage of mad women.”

The cast is absolutely superb. The direction, set and lighting were all fabulous. Thank you, Peter. The heart of the play is the enduring love of Georges and Albin. Georges is our master of ceremonies and welcomes the audience to his St. Tropez drag nightclub. Georges and Albin have lived together for many years. Albin is a drag queen and the star performer under the alias of “Zaza.”

Roger Prenger is Georges and gives another outstanding performance with his bright, sparkling jackets and great acting. But let’s face it, the play belongs and is owned by Patrick Russo, who plays Albin. To say he plays a drama queen to perfection does not give him enough praise.

As we end the first act, Patrick – on stage, all alone in a beautiful bright gown with rhinestones glittering and perfect makeup – sings his heart out with “I Am What I Am.” If the words don’t move you to tears, at least you will appreciate the fantastic way Patrick sings it.

The fun starts when Georges’ son from a liaison long ago wants to bring the parents of his new love home to meet his “family.” Her father is the head of the “Tradition, Family and Morality Party.” What to do with Albin? You get the picture.

To quote Shakespeare, “The play’s the thing.” Do not miss this play, and it is selling out fast.

See you at the theater.