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Harvey Fierstein Headshot

Harvey Fierstein

Birth Place: Brooklyn, NY, USA

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BIO

Harvey Fierstein's theater work includes Torch Song Trilogy (Best Play, Best Actor, Tony and Drama Desk awards), Kinky Boots (Best Musical Tony), La Cage aux Folles (Best Book, Tony and Drama Desk awards), Newsies (Tony nominated), Casa Valentina (Tony nominated), A Catered Affair (12 Drama Desk nominations), Safe Sex (Ace Award), Legs Diamond, Spookhouse, Flatbush Tosca, and Freaky Pussy. He's written teleplays for NBC's "Hairspray Live!" and "The Wiz Live!" His revised script of Funny Girl, ran to critical acclaim in London and has been filmed for broadcast. His political editorials have appeared in The New York Times, TV Guide, Huffington Post and broadcast on PBS's "In the Life." Harvey's children's book, The Sissy Duckling, is now in its 8th printing, and the HBO animated special of the story won Harvey the Humanities Award. Mr. Fierstein has been recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and has been inducted into the Theater Hall of Fame and the Brooklyn Walk of Fame.

Photos

STAGE CREDITS

[Washington, DC (Regional)]
Kennedy Center Production, 2020
Mae

[Off-Broadway]
Manhattan Theatre Club Off-Broadway World Premiere, 2019
Performer

[Off-Broadway]
World Premiere Public Theatre Off-Broadway Production, 2017
Beau

[Motion Picture]
NBC Live Televised Production, 2016
Edna Turnblad

[Broadway]
Broadway Transfer, 2010
Albin [Replacement]

[US Tour]
Touring Revival, 2009
Tevye [Replacement]

[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 2008
Uncle Winston

[New York]
New York Concert, 2006
Avram

[Las Vegas]
Las Vegas Production, 2006
Edna Turnblad

[Broadway]
Stephen Sondheim Tribute Benefit, 2005
Performer

[Broadway]
Actors' Fund Concert, 2004
Performer

Other Roles

[Broadway]
Broadway Revival, 2004
Tevye [Replacement]

[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 2002
Edna Turnblad

Edna Turnblad [Replacement]

[Off-Broadway]
1991
Ghee

[Off-Broadway]
1991
Jay Astor

[Broadway]
1987
Ghee

Arthur

[Broadway]
1982
Arnold Beckoff

[Off-Broadway]
1982
Arnold Beckoff

[Off-Broadway]
1978
Arnold

Productions

 
[US Tour, 2023]
Book Revision
 
[Broadway, 2022]
Revised Book
 
[West End, 2016]
Revised Book
 
[New York, 2015]
New Material
 
[West End, 2015]
Revised Book
 
[Broadway, 2013]
Bookwriter
 
[Broadway, 2008]
Producer

Writing

Playwright
Playwright
Playwright
Bookwriter
Playwright
Bookwriter

Movies

Garbo Talks
[ 1984 ] Bernie Whitlock
Torch Song Trilogy
[ 1988 ] Arnold Beckoff
The Harvest
[ 1993 ] Bob Lakin
Mrs. Doubtfire
[ 1993 ] Frank Hillard
Bullets Over Broadway
[ 1994 ] Sid Loomis
Dr. Jekyll and Ms. Hyde
[ 1995 ] Yves DuBois
Independence Day
[ 1996 ] Marty Gilbert
Everything Relative
[ 1996 ] The Moyle
White Lies
[ 1997 ] Art Hoarder
Kull the Conqueror
[ 1997 ] Juba
Safe Men
[ 1998 ] Leo
Mulan
[ 1998 ] Yao
Jump
[ 1999 ] Dish Macense
Playing Mona Lisa
[ 2000 ] Bennett
Death to Smoochy
[ 2002 ] Merv Green
Duplex
[ 2003 ] Kenneth
Farce of the Penguins
[ 2006 ] Sheila
Foodfight!
[ 2012 ] Fat Cat Burglar
Animal Crackers
[ 2017 ] Esmerelda
Disney's Newsies: The Broadway Musical!
[ 2017 ] writer
Kinky Boots: The Musical
[ 2019 ] writer
Bros
[ 2022 ] Louis

TV Shows

Big Mouth
Jerome
Family Guy
Buster Keaton, Tracy

Awards and Nominations

Tony Awards - 2019 - Best Revival of a Play

Harvey Fierstein, Torch Song


winner
- 2017 - Legend of Off-Broadway Honorees

Harvey Fierstein

Tony Awards - 2014 - Best Play

Harvey Fierstein, Casa Valentina

Tony Awards - 2013 - Best Book of a Musical

Harvey Fierstein, Kinky Boots


winner
BroadwayWorld Awards - 2012 - Best Book of a Musical

Harvey Fierstein, Newsies

Tony Awards - 2012 - Best Book of a Musical

Harvey Fierstein, Newsies the Musical

Drama Desk Awards - 2008 - Outstanding Book of a Musical

Harvey Fierstein, A Catered Affair


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 2003 - Outstanding Actor - Musical

Harvey Fierstein, Hairspray


winner
Drama League Awards - 2003 - Distinguished Performance Award

Harvey Fierstein, Hairspray

Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2003 - Outstanding Actor in a Musical

Harvey Fierstein, Hairspray


winner
Tony Awards - 2003 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical

Harvey Fierstein, Hairspray

Olivier Awards - 1985 - Play of the Year

Harvey FiersteinTorch Song Trilogy

Drama Desk Awards - 1984 - Outstanding Book of a Musical

Harvey Fierstein, La Cage aux Folles


winner
Tony Awards - 1984 - Best Book of a Musical

Harvey Fierstein, La Cage aux Folles


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1983 - Outstanding Actor in a Play

Harvey Fierstein, Torch Song Trilogy


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1983 - Outstanding Play

Harvey Fierstein, Torch Song Trilogy


winner
Theatre World Awards - 1983 - Performance

Harvey Fierstein, Torch Song Trilogy


winner
Tony Awards - 1983 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play

Harvey Fierstein , Torch Song Trilogy


winner
Tony Awards - 1983 - Best Play

Harvey Fierstein, Torch Song Trilogy

Drama Desk Awards - 1982 - Outstanding Actor in a Play

Harvey Fierstein, Torch Song Trilogy

Drama Desk Awards - 1982 - Outstanding Play

Harvey Fierstein, Torch Song Trilogy

New York Drama Critics Circle Awards - 1982 - Best American Play

Harvey Fierstein, Torch Song Trilogy


winner
Obie Awards - 1982 - Special Citations

Harvey Fierstein, Torch Song Trilogy

Videos

News


Industry Pro Newsletter: New Tony Eligibility Rulings, the NEA Announces Nearly $40 Million in Grants

From national funding initiatives and emerging talent showcases to leadership changes and awards season updates, the industry demonstrates its capacity to adapt and inspire. Regional and international efforts underline the importance of community support, whether through wildfire relief in California or advocating for arts funding in Bristol. With new venues, leadership appointments, and cultural projects on the horizon, this week’s newsletter celebrates the power of the performing arts to drive innovation and foster connection across diverse audiences.
John Tartaglia, Marcia Milgrom Dodge, Rob Ruggiero & More Join The Muny 107th Season

The Muny has revealed the teams of directors, choreographers, music directors and lead designers whose creative visions will bring the theatre’s bold 2025 season to life. Learn more about the upcoming season!
Industry Pro Newsletter: Why Audiences Are Asking For Refunds, IATSE Strike, Congestion Pricing Impact

This week, we explore whether congestion pricing is reshaping Manhattan travel habits and examine a labor strike disrupting productions at Atlantic Theater Company. On the regional stage, we reflect on the loss of Theatre Palisades to Los Angeles wildfires and the struggles facing Bay Area theatres. Internationally, the launch of Welsh National Theatre and ATG’s acquisition of SOM Produce bring new opportunities, while changes at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School underscore ongoing financial pressures. Each story highlights resilience amid transformation in the global arts community.
KINKY BOOTS Will Embark on New National Tour in Fall 2025

Kinky Boots will hit the road on an all new tour, launching in the Fall of 2025. Cities and casting will be announced in the coming months. Learn more here!
10 Great Movies About Theater, Actors, & Show Business

BroadwayWorld has put together a list of ten films about theater for those seeking a taste of Broadway drama (or comedy). Take a look at the list here and happy watching!
Industry Pro Newsletter: Broadway Capitalization Budgets Continue to Increase, Congestion Pricing Goes Into Effect

From Broadway's escalating production budgets to Berlin’s significant arts funding cuts, economic pressures are shaping the global cultural landscape. Meanwhile, New York City takes bold steps with congestion pricing, impacting theatergoers and commuters alike. Amid these challenges, artistic resilience shines through – whether in rural arts communities, Hollywood’s ongoing fight to rebound, or the launch of the Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab to nurture new talent.
Video: Inside the New York Public Library's Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab

On Tuesday, December 17, the New York Public Library celebrated the opening of the Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab. See interviews with Harvey Fierstein and more and get a look inside the space!
Wake Up With BroadwayWorld December 24, 2024

Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is December 24, 2024 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
Photos: The New York Public Library Opens the Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab

The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center recently unveiled its new theater incubator space, the Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab, which is now complete and open and accessible to the public. Check out photos from the opening here!
FUNNY GIRL Comes to the Overture Center This Month

FUNNY GIRL is coming to Overture Center for the Arts in Madison, Wis., for a limited one-week engagement beginning December 31. Learn more about about the musical and find out how to get tickets here!
Photo Special: Celebrating BC/EFA Executive Director Tom Viola

All of us here at BroadwayWorld wanted to pay tribute to Tom, and to our strong partnership, by taking a look back with this photo gallery below. 
Photos: The Grand Prairie Arts Council Presents NEWSIES

The Grand Prairie Arts Council is presenting Disney's Newsies, based on the Disney film written by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Jack Feldman, and book by Harvey Fierstein. See photos from the production.
Auditions Now Open to Join Seattle Men’s Chorus

Seattle Men’s Chorus is once again opening its doors to new chorus members with auditions this January. All participants are required to register online before auditioning.
Tickets to FUNNY GIRL At Bass Concert Hall to go on Sale This Week

FUNNY GIRL is coming to Bass Concert Hall for a limited one-week engagement this winter. The Broadway revival features iconic songs, including “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” “I’m the Greatest Star,” and “People.” Learn how to purchase tickets.
FUNNY GIRL Comes To The Ohio Theatre This March

FUNNY GIRL is coming to Columbus for an eight-show run March 25-30, 2025, at the Ohio Theatre.
Review: FUNNY GIRL at Kansas City Music Hall

FUNNY GIRL is one of the crown gems of the American Musical Theater. Kansas City audiences will be treated to a first-class production of a show that many theater buffs know about but have never seen. Tuesday night’s performance starred Leah Platt in the lead role of Fanny Brice. Leah has a gangbuster voice fully displayed as she plows through an excellent score with music by Jule Styne and lyrics by Bob Merrill.
Feature: FUNNY GIRL at KANSAS CITY MUSIC HALL

One of the fun parts of reviewing shows in Kansas City is the occasional opportunity to meet and interview some of the talented touring performers who come through with road productions of Broadway shows.
Liz Callaway Releases New Holiday Single- 'There's Still My Joy'

Grammy and Tony nominee and Emmy winner Liz Callaway will release her new holiday single “There’s Still My Joy,” on Friday, December 6, 2024, on all digital platforms, including iTunes, Spotify and Apple Music.
The Grand Prairie Arts Council To Present Disney's NEWSIES

The Grand Prairie Arts Council will present Disney's Newsies, based on the Disney film written by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Jack Feldman, and book by Harvey Fierstein.
La MaMa Presents Richard Foreman's SUPPOSE BEAUTIFUL MADELINE HARVEY

La MaMa will present the world premiere of Suppose Beautiful Madeline Harvey, legendary experimental theater icon Richard Foreman's first new play in 10 years.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many Broadway shows has Harvey Fierstein been in?

Harvey Fierstein has appeared on Broadway in 8 shows.

How many West End shows has Harvey Fierstein been in?

Harvey Fierstein has not appeared in the West End.

What awards has Harvey Fierstein been nominated for?

Best Revival of a Play (Tony Awards) for Torch Song, Legend of Off-Broadway Honorees (), Best Play (Tony Awards) for Casa Valentina, Best Book of a Musical (Tony Awards) for Kinky Boots, Best Book of a Musical (BroadwayWorld Awards) for Newsies, Best Book of a Musical (Tony Awards) for Newsies the Musical, Outstanding Book of a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for A Catered Affair, Outstanding Actor - Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for Hairspray, Distinguished Performance Award (Drama League Awards) for Hairspray, Outstanding Actor in a Musical (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Hairspray , Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for Hairspray, Play of the Year (Olivier Awards) for Torch Song Trilogy, Outstanding Book of a Musical (Drama Desk Awards) for La Cage aux Folles, Best Book of a Musical (Tony Awards) for La Cage aux Folles , Outstanding Actor in a Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Torch Song Trilogy, Outstanding Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Torch Song Trilogy, Performance (Theatre World Awards) for Torch Song Trilogy, Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for Torch Song Trilogy, Best Play (Tony Awards) for Torch Song Trilogy , Outstanding Actor in a Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Torch Song Trilogy, Outstanding Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Torch Song Trilogy, Best American Play (New York Drama Critics Circle Awards) for Torch Song Trilogy and Special Citations (Obie Awards) for Torch Song Trilogy.

What awards has Harvey Fierstein won?

Harvey Fierstein has received several prestigious awards throughout his career, including the Legend of Off-Broadway Honorees. He won Best Book of a Musical at the BroadwayWorld Awards for Newsies. For Hairspray, he was honored with the Outstanding Actor - Musical at the Drama Desk Awards, the Distinguished Performance Award at the Drama League Awards, and the Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical at the Tony Awards. Fierstein also won the Best Book of a Musical at the Tony Awards for La Cage aux Folles. His work in Torch Song Trilogy earned him multiple accolades, including Outstanding Actor in a Play and Outstanding Play at the Drama Desk Awards, a Performance Award at the Theatre World Awards, the Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play at the Tony Awards, and Best Play at the Tony Awards. Additionally, he received Special Citations from the Obie Awards for Torch Song Trilogy.

How many shows has Harvey Fierstein written?

Harvey Fierstein has written 13 shows including International Stud (Playwright), Torch Song Trilogy (Playwright), Torch Song Trilogy (Playwright), La Cage aux Folles (Bookwriter), Spookhouse (Playwright), Safe Sex (Playwright), Legs Diamond (Bookwriter), Safe Sex (Playwright), A Catered Affair (Bookwriter), Newsies (Bookwriter), Kinky Boots (Bookwriter), Casa Valentina (Playwright), Bella Bella (AUthor).

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