Harvey Fierstein has finally claimed the part he was born to play in the newly cast revival of La Cage Aux Folles. The gravel-voiced performer has now assumed the role of Albin--the flamboyant drag queen performer who goes under the stage name Zaza--in this hit revival of the groundbreaking Jerry Herman musical for which he wrote the libretto nearly three decade ago.

Co-starring opposite Christopher Sieber--the Broadway veteran (Shrek, Spamalot) who quickly stepped into the role of Albin’s partner Georges after Jeffrey Tambor abruptly left the production--Fierstein delivers a wonderfully affecting and hilarious performance of true diva proportions.

His interpretation is quite different than that of Douglas Hodge, who originally played the role in this Menier Chocolate Factory revival that opened on Broadway last season after a hit London run. Hodge brought an edgy intensity and affecting insecurity to his Albin that realistically grounded the proceedings. Fierstein, on the other hand, delivers a true star turn, mining the comically outlandish aspects of the character in vaudevillian style.

He’s endlessly entertaining, but quite moving as well, especially in his bravura rendition of “I Am What I Am,” the showstopping Act I closing number that went on to become an unofficial gay anthem.

He also displays a real chemistry with his co-star that was somewhat lacking in his predecessor’s interactions with Kelsey Grammer. Although Sieber lacks Grammer’s effortless natural urbanity, he’s sweetly appealing as the endlessly aggrieved but deeply devoted Georges, and his renditions of such gorgeous songs as “Song on the Sand” and “Look Over There” are deeply touching.

In the other significant cast change, Wilson Jermaine Heredia (of the original cast of Rent) provides just the right amount of outrageousness to his gleefully over-the-top turn as the sassy “maid,” Jacob.

Longacre Theatre, 220 W. 48 th St. 212-239-6200. www.telecharge.com.