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Billy Porter is making his triumphant return to Broadway this June with a legendary classic musical. The Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award winner will star as Albin in the acclaimed Encores production of La Cage aux Folles opposite Wayne Brady. This marks Porter’s first Broadway appearance in an all-Black cast revival of the iconic Jerry Herman musical.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Dates: June 17-28, 2026 at New York City Center
- Stars: Billy Porter (Albin) and Emmy Award winner Wayne Brady (Georges)
- Director: Robert O’Hara leading an all-Black cast production
- Music: 1983 original orchestrations not heard since Broadway’s debut run
A Star-Studded Reunion on the Broadway Stage
Billy Porter praised Wayne Brady during a recent SiriusXM interview, calling the Whose Line Is It Anyway? star truly talented and ready for a classic project. Porter noted that Brady has never had the opportunity to create something in such a prestigious theatrical production.
The two powerhouse performers will bring chemistry and energy to this beloved story about family, commitment, and love. Porter, known for his iconic role in Kinky Boots, has positioned himself as Broadway’s most decorated performer. Brady steps into the world of live musical theatre with a role that demands both comedic timing and genuine emotional depth.
Billy Porter returns to Broadway in La Cage aux Folles with Wayne Brady this June
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Broadway’s All-Black Production Reveals Fresh Vision
Director Robert O’Hara has assembled an all-Black cast for this special Encores revival, creating a milestone moment in Broadway history. The production features Tony Award winner Tonya Pinkins as Jacqueline and Peter Francis James, Michael McElroy, Sharon Washington, and Lance Coadie Williams in key supporting roles. The ensemble cast brings diverse talents and perspectives to the 1983 Tony-winning musical.
This casting choice celebrates representation and brings a vibrant energy to Harvey Fierstein’s beloved script. The production highlights the original orchestrations from the musical’s debut, offering theatregoers an authentic connection to the show’s theatrical roots.
What You Need to Know About This Broadway Icon
La Cage aux Folles tells the heartwarming story of Albin and Georges, longtime partners who own a vibrant drag nightclub in St. Tropez. When their son brings home his fiancée’s conservative parents, chaos erupts in this farcical, touching musical about family acceptance and queer love.
| Detail | Information |
| Composer | Jerry Herman (music and lyrics) |
| Book | Harvey Fierstein |
| Original Premiere | August 21, 1983 on Broadway |
| Famous Numbers | “A Little More Mascara,” “The Best of Times” |
Porter has spoken passionately about the show’s themes, noting that Harvey Fierstein was writing about the queer insular family before it entered mainstream conversation. This production remains one of musical theatre’s most beloved celebrations of authenticity and acceptance from the LGBTQ+ community.
“This piece is about family. This story is about family. Harvey Fierstein was writing about the queer insular family before anybody was talking about it in the zeitgeist.”
— Billy Porter, Tony Award-winning performer
Why Billy Porter Remains Broadway’s Most Decorated Star
Billy Porter has become a household name through decades of dedication to theatre and television. He won a Primetime Emmy Award in 2019 for his groundbreaking role as Pray Tell in the acclaimed television series Pose. That victory made him the first openly gay Black man to win the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.
His Tony Award came for his transformative performance in Kinky Boots, while his Grammy Award recognizes his contributions to recorded music. This triple crown of awards positions Porter as one of the most accomplished performers in entertainment history. His return to Broadway demonstrates his passion for live theatrical performance and his commitment to telling stories that matter.
Can You Get Tickets Before These 12 Days Close out This June?
The Encores production runs from June 17 through June 28, 2026 at New York City Center on West 55th Street in Manhattan. Performance dates are limited, making early ticket purchases essential for fans of Billy Porter, Wayne Brady, and musical theatre classics.
Encores will also host a Community Pride Block Party on June 26 from 5:30 to 7:00 PM, featuring free drag performances, live music, and DJ 2FACE. This celebration of Pride with drink and merchandise specials makes the theatre experience even more momentous. Visit nycitycenter.org for official ticketing information and performance details.
Sources
- Broadway World – Billy Porter praises Wayne Brady ahead of Encores production
- NYC City Center – Official production details and cast announcements
- Playbill – Overview of La Cage aux Folles musical and creative team
