Verdict: Five stars 

EVERY so often at the King’s Theatre, a performance will completely blow it out of the water.

And that’s exactly what happened last night when the audience got to experience theatre at its very best thanks to the cast of La Cage Aux Folles, who had the entire venue up off their seats for a standing ovation.

Most of that recognition by the audience was, however, rightly for Eastenders’ alumni John Partridge, who took us into a wonderful world of flamboyance through his portrayal of Albin.  

The actor was the standout star of the show as he adopted a Manchester accent to take being camp to another level.

His feminine movements, quirky punchlines and off script humour had the audience simply transfixed.

The role was made for the actor who claimed the stage and found the perfect blend between taking the spotlight when necessary and allowing supporting actors to shine.

La Cage Aux Folles started out as a play, became a musical and then hit notoriety through the Birdcage film which starred Robin Williams.

It follows the story of Georges, the manager of a Saint Tropez nightclub, and his partner Albin, who is the star attraction.

Their son Jean-Michel announces his engagement to a right-wing politician who is against everything the couple stand for.

And in a bid to please their son’s new family, attempts are made to cover up who they really are.

The plot brings endless humour but delivers a moral that we should all accept who we are and never try to change that.

With songs including the Iconic I am What I Am and showgirl style routines, delivered by men, this show is like no other musical you will ever see on the stage,

The supporting cast had an on-stage chemistry which was electrifying for the audience to watch, and a particular highlight was Samson Ajewole who played Jacob. He managed to win the audience over with his mean girl sassiness routine.

You can watch any show at the theatre and take on board the story, the set and the audience reactions. But the one thing you can’t always guarantee is that you will walk away with the feel good factor.

And La Cage Aux Folles gave the audience happiness by the bucket loads.

Catch La Cage Aux Folles at The King’s Theatre until Saturday.