THE TEMPERAMENTALS

This play should please those angered with the recent Mardi Gras name change, and being part of the festival highlights Mardi Gras still continues to remind society why it began.

Set in 1950s America, a homosexual couple, married Harry Hay and costume designer Rudi Gernreich, fall in love and form the first gay rights organisation in America. Slowly they amass a small group of men who are willing to fight for the cause in a time when being gay was unacceptable.

Harry, Rudi and a few from the group disagree with the treatment of one of their members (who is in court for lewd actions in a public toilet) by the police. The court case that follows is their chance to propel their group into the limelight and hopefully change the nation’s views on being homosexual.

Based on a true story, The Temperamentals is a thought-provoking piece that will shock many at just how hard living as a homosexual really was in the 1950s. All of the five actors assembled wear plain black trousers and black shirts, while the set is simply designed with projections hovering in the background featuring photos of real people from the story – both devices operating as a constant reminder that what you are watching is fact. Told with an injection of humour, honesty and with wonderful acting from all, make sure this is on the top of your Mardi Gras To Do list.

Until Mar 3, New Theatre, 542 King St, Newtown, $15-30, 1300 131 188, newtheatre.org.au

BY PAUL STRUTHERS