Rudetsky to Star in Gallery Players' Torch Song Trilogy

Theatrical renaissance man Seth Rudetsky will headline the Gallery Players' upcoming production of Harvey Fierstein's Torch Song Trilogy, which the Brooklyn company will present from November 25th through December 10th.

He will star as Arnold, the role originated by the play's author Harvey Fierstein (who is a founding member of the Gallery Players).

Directed by Stephen Nachamie and produced by M.R. Goodley, the production will also star Yolanda Batts, Andy Phelan, Laura Raines, Brad Thomason, Marc Tumminelli and Andrea Wollenberg.

"Set in the 1970s, Torch Song Trilogy tells the story of Arnold, a Jewish female impersonator who is struggling to find love. In the final act, Arnold comes face-to-face with parenthood with an adopted son and the only thing that really scares Arnold: the impending visit from his mother. As much a reflection of the importance of family and love, Torch Song Trilogy is hailed as a classic comedy," state Gallery Players notes on the play, which is comprised of The International Stud, Fugue in a Nursery and Widows and Children First!.

Rudetsky has teamed up with The Actor's Fund as Artistic Producer, conductor and musical director on star-studded productions of On the Twentieth Century, Hair, Chess, Funny Girl and the Dreamgirls 20th Anniversary Concert, and most recently, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.  His hit show Rhapsody in Seth, was nominated for a GLAAD Award.  As a pit pianist and conductor, Rudetsky has leant his talents to over 15 Broadway shows, including 42nd Street, The Full Monty, Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia! and The Producers. Rudetsky was part of the three-time Emmy-nominated comedy writing team for "The Rosie O'Donnell Show" and wrote the lyrics and opening numbers of the 1998 and 2000 Tony Awards shows.  He can be heard everyday as a deejay on SIRIUS Satellite Radio.

The show will feature sets by Craig M. Napoliello, costumes by Kathleen Leary, lighting by Dan Gallagher and sound design and music by Brenna Sage.

Torch Song Trilogy won the 1983 Tony Award for Best Play and Fierstein, who also starred in the film version, won a Tony for Best Actor.

Visit www.galleryplayers.com for tickets and more information.