An icon returns
Starring Jim Parsons, Zachary Quinto, Andrew Rannells, Matt Bomer and Robin De Jesus!
Mart Crowley's landmark of LGBTQ theatre returns to celebrate its 50th anniversary with this all-star revival directed by Joe Mantello. An icon of queer theatre, The Boys in The Band broke ground from its 1968 premiere. Its depiction of a group of young homosexual men bonding and sparring during a rather calamitous birthday party was the first time many audiences experienced homosexuality as secondary to a character's personality, showing instead the individual, however flawed.
The second landmark gay drama to hit Broadway in 2018, its been lined up for a limited 15-week run at the Booth Theater with a veritable smogasboard of Emmy and Tony Winners and nominees including Jim Parsons, Andrew Rannells, Zachary Quinto, Matt Bomer and Robin De Jesus.
What is The Boys In The Band About?
Taking place in an upscale New York apartment, a group of gay men are celebrating Harold's birthday, hosted by his "frenemy" Michael. Morose at the prospect of not being able to attract younger men, things seemingly take an upturn for Harold when he is gifted with a male prostitute called Cowboy. However, events quickly turn dark again when Michael's allegedly straight college friend Alan arrives unexpectedly, needing to speak with Michael urgently.
As the drinks flow, the banter between the men becomes more nasty and pointed, culminating in a risky game where each player must call somebody on the telephone and declare their love. When it comes to Alan's turn, Michael spitefully snatches the phone from him, believing that his friend is in fact gay - only to find that Alan has called his wife. What Alan wanted to discuss with Michael remains a mystery, leaving us to make our own conclusions.
Did you know?
Launched two years before the Stonewall Riots in, The Boys In The Band is credited with contributing to the Gay Rights struggle and is essential viewing for any person with a interest in LGBTQ history.