Stolen Costumes from Cage aux Folles
Costumes Stolen from Montreal Production of ‘La Cage aux Folles’
MONTREAL (AP) — Approximately one-third of the costumes for the Montreal production of La Cage aux Folles, starring Alex Perron and Marcel leboeuf, were stolen on March 27, according to production staff. The missing garments, valued at $20,000, were taken from a team member’s vehicle in Verdun while en route to a dry cleaner ahead of the show’s resumption in Quebec.
Costume designer Michel Robidas, known for his work with performers such as Diane Dufresne and Julie Snyder, scrambled to replace the stolen items. The stolen costumes included glittery Charleston dresses, jackets, shirts, pants, and bathrobes.
“I was relieved when I saw the list of stolen pieces as I could find similar rentals,” Robidas said.
Robidas sourced replacement pieces from a Montreal costume designer. “For me, it was significant that the public was not penalized and that he is witnessing a spectacle of the same quality as before the theft of costumes.”
Robidas emphasized the unique nature of the stolen costumes. “These costumes are unique and arduous to resell. They represent hundreds of hours of creation,” he said, noting the impact on his team. “Not just my working time, but that of a whole team; From workshop to fittings with the actors.”
A public appeal was posted on the show’s Facebook page,offering a reward for information leading to the recovery of the costumes.
Production staff believe the chances of recovering the original costumes are slim.
With performances of La Cage aux Folles scheduled to continue until September, Robidas plans to recreate the stolen costumes. Producer Paul Dupont-Hébert praised Robidas’s efforts and indicated plans to engage him for an upcoming 2026 tour.
Dupont-Hébert addressed the question of why duplicates were not made. “It costs to much,” Robidas said. “Theater producers in Quebec do not have the means of Broadway or Cirque du Soleil, for example, which can create costumes in double, triple, or even more.”
“This theft cannot be explained, as these costumes have no value for anyone…except for us,” Dupont-Hébert said.“If the person who has ‘borrowed’ them by mistake could go back to the ticket office of the St-Denis Theater,everyone would be happy.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Costumes Stolen from ’La Cage aux Folles’ Production in Montreal: Your Questions Answered
This article provides answers based on the reported theft of costumes from the Montreal production of La Cage aux folles. We’ll explore the details of the theft, the impact, and the steps taken to ensure the show goes on.
What Happened?
On March 27, approximately one-third of the costumes for the Montreal production of La Cage aux Folles where stolen. The costumes were valued at $20,000 and were being transported to a dry cleaner when they were taken from a team member’s vehicle in Verdun.
What Items Were Stolen?
The stolen costumes included a variety of items, such as:
- Glittery Charleston dresses
- Jackets
- Shirts
- Pants
- Bathrobes
Who is Involved?
- The Show: La Cage aux Folles, a Montreal production.
- Cast: Starring alex Perron and Marcel Leboeuf.
- Costume designer: Michel Robidas, known for work with performers like Diane Dufresne and Julie snyder.
- Producer: Paul Dupont-Hébert.
What Steps Were Taken After the Theft?
Following the theft,the production team took swift action:
- Replacement Costumes: Costume designer Michel Robidas sourced replacement pieces from a Montreal costume designer.
- Public Appeal: A public appeal was posted on the show’s Facebook page, offering a reward for facts.
Why Were Replacements Needed?
The show was scheduled to continue performances until September. The goal was to ensure the audience wasn’t penalized and could see the show as planned.
Were Duplicates Made?
No, duplicates were not made. According to Robidas, “It costs too much.” Quebec theater productions do not have the same financial resources as Broadway or Cirque du Soleil.
Will the Original Costumes Be Recovered?
Production staff believe the chances of recovering the original costumes are slim.
What is the Future of the Costumes?
Robidas plans to recreate the stolen costumes. Producer Paul Dupont-Hébert has indicated plans to engage him for an upcoming 2026 tour.
Key Quotes from the Article
- “These costumes are unique and arduous to resell.” – Michel Robidas
- “This theft cannot be explained,as these costumes have no value for anyone…except for us.” – Paul Dupont-Hébert
Why is this news crucial?
This story highlights the challenges faced by the performing arts, even in the face of adversity. It showcases the dedication of the production team and their commitment to delivering quality entertainment to the public.