Harvey Fierstein Talks Bella Bella at Press Previews

by Sandi Durell

 

The press met with four time Tony Award winner writer-performer Harvey Fierstein and his director Kimberly Senior at Manhattan Theatre Club’s rehearsal space today (interviews by Sandi Durell) to talk about Bella Bella. Based on long time friendship with Bella Abzug (and since Harvey wasn’t going to write a musical about Bella and husband Martin!) he’s chosen to channel this political larger-than-life figure in a heart-rending and very humorous one-man show.  Going back to 1976 on the eve of Bella’s bid as New York State’s first female Senator, we get to hear all the truths from this hat-wearing icon while she’s awaiting election results in a midtown hotel bathroom.

 

 

The play is directed by Kimberly Senior; John Lee Beatty does the scenic design; Rita Ryack – costumes; Tyler Micoleau-lighting; Jill BC Du Boff – Sound and Caite Hever – projections.

Bella Bella opens in previews on Oct. 1 with an Oct. 22 opening and runs thru December 1 at MTC’s New York City Center-Stage 1 (131 West 55 St.NYC)

Photos/Filming: Magda Katz