Drew Sarich to Star in “La Cage aux Folles” at Mörbisch Festival 2026

Drew Sarich is bringing his acclaimed portrayal of Zaza to the Seefestspiele Mörbisch this summer, joining Alfons Haider in the lead roles of “Ein Käfig voller Narren” (La Cage aux Folles). The casting announcement, made on March 4, 2026, adds significant star power to the production, which will be staged on the open-air Seebühne Mörbisch from July 16 to August 22, 2026.

Sarich’s performance as Zaza previously captivated audiences at the Wiener Volksoper, and he’ll alternate in the role with Haider, who similarly serves as the festival’s General Intendant. This production marks a significant shift for the Seefestspiele Mörbisch, traditionally known for operetta, as it embraces the Broadway flair of this beloved musical.

A Timeless Story of Tolerance and Acceptance

“Ein Käfig voller Narren,” originally penned by Jean Poiret and later adapted into a musical with music and lyrics by Jerry Herman and a book by Harvey Fierstein, has resonated with audiences since its debut in the 1970s. The story centers on Georges, the owner of a Saint-Tropez nightclub, and his partner Albin, who performs as the drag queen Zaza. Their carefully constructed world is thrown into turmoil when Georges’ son announces his engagement to the conservative daughter of a local politician. Oeticket.com details the demonstrate’s enduring appeal.

The musical is celebrated not only for its comedic elements and dazzling showmanship but also for its powerful message of tolerance, love, and the courage to be oneself – encapsulated in the iconic anthem, “I Am What I Am.” The production promises a vibrant blend of drag show spectacle and heartfelt emotion, making it a standout event in the summer theater calendar.

Sarich’s Zaza: From Vienna to the Burgenland

Drew Sarich’s casting is particularly noteworthy given the acclaim he received for his Zaza at the Wiener Volksoper. He expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, “’Ein Käfig voller Narren’ is one of the greatest challenges of my career. I love this piece very much and the role of Albin/Zaza means a lot to me! I have also heard so much good about Mörbisch and am very excited to conquer this impressive stage in the summer.”

Haider echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the artistic coup of securing Sarich for the production. “That we were able to win one of the most successful Zaza performers for this year’s Mörbisch production is a great artistic success for the festival,” he said. “His commitment is a hit for our piece. At the same time, I am very happy to have found a wonderful colleague with him. It’s certainly interesting for our audience that there will be different interpretations of this role. I would be very happy if our visitors came to the performance twice for this reason. We have a special treat ready for all those who want to take this unique opportunity.”

Mörbisch Embraces Broadway

The decision to stage “Ein Käfig voller Narren” at the Seebühne Mörbisch represents a deliberate move to broaden the festival’s appeal and introduce a more contemporary musical theater experience. Traditionally, the venue has been synonymous with grand operettas performed against the backdrop of the Neusiedler See. This year’s production aims to inject a dose of Broadway energy into the Austrian summer festival circuit. The Seefestspiele Mörbisch website details the shift in programming.

Andreas Gergen will direct the production, having previously garnered praise for his function on “Mamma Mia!” at Mörbisch. The staging promises to be visually spectacular, with set designs by Walter Vogelweider, aiming to capture the vibrant atmosphere of Saint-Tropez and the dazzling world of the nightclub.

Beyond the Leads: Completing the Cast

Alongside Sarich and Haider, the production features a strong supporting cast. Anna Rosa Döller will portray Anne Dindon, Timotheus Hollweg will take on the role of Jean-Michel, and Ursula Pfitzner will play Jaqueline. These actors will join Haider and Mark Seibert, who will also appear in the production, creating a dynamic ensemble that promises to bring the characters to life with heart, wit, and charm.

A Gift for Musical Theatre Fans

The Seefestspiele Mörbisch is actively promoting “Ein Käfig voller Narren” as an ideal gift for musical theater enthusiasts. Tickets and gift vouchers are available for purchase, offering flexibility for those unsure of specific dates. The festival is capitalizing on the star power of Sarich and Haider, as well as the enduring popularity of the musical, to attract a wide audience. Wiener Bezirksblatt highlights the show as a perfect Christmas gift.

What’s Next for the Production

Rehearsals are scheduled to begin in the weeks leading up to the premiere on July 16, 2026. The production team is currently finalizing the staging and musical arrangements, ensuring a seamless transition from the rehearsal room to the Seebühne. The festival is also planning a series of promotional events to generate excitement and build anticipation for the opening night. With a strong cast, a beloved musical, and a stunning venue, “Ein Käfig voller Narren” is poised to be a highlight of the 2026 summer theater season.