The Bird Cage at Lake Country Playhouse & Academy

The Bird Cage by Arthur Laurents

Written by Arthur Laurents — the celebrated playwright behind West Side Story and Gypsy — The Bird Cage is a sharp and unsparing drama set in the smoky world of a Manhattan nightclub. Wally Williams is a man who will do whatever it takes to get to the top. Through manipulation, intimidation, and outright betrayal, he claws his way to control of the Bird Cage — and everyone in it. But power built on deception is a fragile thing, and when the club's finances begin to crumble, Wally turns on the very people who helped him rise.

Set against the gritty backdrop of mid-century New York, The Bird Cage is a morally charged portrait of ambition unchecked — and the human wreckage it leaves behind. Laurents writes with the same unflinching honesty that would later define his greatest works, exploring themes of loyalty, exploitation, and the dark cost of the American hunger for success.

Rarely produced since its 1950 Broadway premiere, this is a unique opportunity to experience a lost gem from one of theatre's most enduring voices.

Staged Reading, Drama Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 90 minutes. 15 minute intermission. Admission: $15.00

Performances: Thursday, June 25, 2026, 7:30 pm Friday, June 26, 2026, 7:30 pm Saturday, June 27, 2026, 7:30 pm

Cast: Kathryn Steib - Emily Williams Austin Featherstone - Frank Barbara Stigler - Narrator Nathan Schaefer - Ferdy Adam Frontera - Joe Karisa Perik - India Grey Elizabeth Havican - Pearl/Renie Renay Paula Nordwig - Mr. Ripley/Mr. Mack Elmo Wendorf Jr. - Wally Williams Rob Krohlow - Cork Amaris Bates - Eloise Stephan Cernek - Vic

Production Team: Directed by Elena Donley Produced by Kit Seidel

THE BIRD CAGE is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Dramatists Play Service. www.concordtheatricals.com