A lonely Jewish drag queen from the Big Apple goes in search for love and family in this award-winning production by Harvey Fierstein.

The play premiered in 1981 as gay and lesbian groups continued to fight for civil rights.

While it’s an ideal time to perform it as part of the Sydney Mardi Gras Festival, director Stephen Colyer says, “it’s a timely play 30 years on as the fight continues for the legal recognition of same-sex marriage”.

“A lot of the issues essential to the story are such hot topics today in terms of marriage equality and parenting children. It’s also about a man discovering his self-worth which sends a positive message to anyone who feels different.”

Torch Song Trilogy is the combination of three plays, The International Stud, Fugue in a Nursery, and Widows and Children First, marking important points in drag queen Arnold Beckoff’s life from 1971 to 1980.

“It was a real journey delving into the character of Arnold,” says up-and-coming hot new talent Simon Corfield, who plays the pivotal figure.

“Arnold uses his sharp-witted and self-deprecating humour to deflect attention away from his intense emotional depth and vulnerability. The inherent truth and comedy of Fierstein’s writing makes these plays just as relevant today,” continues Corfield.

Feb 6-Mar 3, Theatre 19, (formerly Darlinghurst Theatre), 19 Greenknowe Ave, Potts Point, $35-40, 8356 9987, darlinghursttheatre.com

This preview originally appeared in the City Hub where I am a regular contributor to the Arts & Entertainment section.