'The Temperamentals': Not Just a Gay History Lesson

Cast members of 'The Temperamentals.'  Photo by Stan Barough

To many of the younger generation, the quest for equality for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender population has only centered on same-sex marriage.   Others perhaps are aware of the Stonewall uprisings in New York’s West Village in June 1969 that most concur launched the modern gay rights movement.  In actuality, the movement began quietly and covertly in the early part of the 20th century and started to find its legs in the 1950’s. 
The first gay activist (homophile) organization in the U.S. was called the Mattachine Society, which was founded by Harry Hay in Los Angeles. 

The Temperamentals by Jon Marans opens the 20th anniversary season of Rep Stage—the professional Equity theatre in residence at Howard Community College.  In a compelling and humorous way the play chronicles the Mattachine Society’s founding and early stages as well as the developing romance between Hay (played by Nigel Reed) and well-known fashion designer Rudi Gernreich (Alexander Strain). 

For full review, visit MD Theatre Guide.