Queers in History: The Show

"A Riveting Romp Through Queerdom"–Sir Ian McKellen

Keith Stern brings his new one man show to cities across America and Europe.

Directed by Andy Serkis (Lord of the Rings) and based on Keith Stern's recently published book, Queers in History: The Show is a 30-minute expedition through the wilderness of history, uncovering the hidden gays and lesbians. On a bare stage, Stern brings to life amazing true stories of Abraham Lincoln, Greta Garbo, Leonard Bernstein, and many other famous people who were LGB or T.

Renowned dialect coach Andrew Jack worked with Stern to develop his Prussian accent for Revolutionary War hero Baron Von Steuben. Gregory Cooke provided additional direction.

Why A Show?

In late September 2009, my friend Andy Serkis (Lord of the Rings, King Kong, Tintin, The Hobbit) was in Los Angeles for the Emmy Awards–he was nominated as Best Supporting Actor in a Miniseries for his wonderful work in Little Dorrit. I inscribed a copy of my book for him and his wife, the actress Lorraine Ashbourn. We talked about my plans to go around to bookstores for presentations and signings. He suggested it might be more interesting for me to perform a short one-man show instead of a lecture–Andy is an eminently sensible man. He told me if I wrote a script, he would direct the show–an offer I would not refuse.

Thus was born, Queers in History: The Show, a short play for one to three players. There are three parts, and I can play at least two of them if necessary. In addition I impersonate notable personages from the past.

It's a lot of fun. I tried it out in October at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, for a small group of students, faculty, and alumni. The noted photographer Leyland Y. Lee (class of '52) was in the audience. They all listened politely, laughed a few times, did not fall asleep, and did not throw injurious articles in my direction. Then we had a one hour discussion. In other words, as much of a success as I could hope for.

I have since performed to great acclaim at Powell's Bookstore in Portland, Elliott Bay Book Company in Seattle, and Chevalier's Bookstore in Los Angeles, I will be doing it again soon, in a bookstore or other venue near you. Fan my Facebook page to keep informed.