Harvey Fiersteins Final Performance.

Posted: 4/19/04 at 10:03pm

As Harveys last performance in Hairspray approaches May 2nd, I was hoping to start a thread that would pay some kind of tribute. I first saw Harvey on stage on opening weekend of Torch Song Trilogy on broadway. I was 18 and still pretty much in the closet. I went back and saw Torch Song many times during its run and have done the same with Hairspray. I have never met the man but I am always taken with the joy that comes through whenever he is on stage. I am even more impressed with his reputation as a consumate proffessional. Only half a performance missed in the whole Hairspray run and that was because of food poisoning. I also loved the fact that in all his press and interviews he has done for the show he has always been most supportive of the young cast. Congragulations Harvey on a sensational run! Updated On: 4/19/04 at 10:03 PM

[orchajaws]

Posted: 4/19/04 at 10:09pm

Harvey will most certainly be sorely missed. I do hope that he returns to the Broadway stage soon after his departure from Hairspray. His performance of Edna is so full of life and passion. I truly feel that he is one of the greatest and most passionate performers ever to grace a Broadway stage - he gives it all, night after night, never misses a performance and is always a pleasure to watch. We'll miss you Harvey!

[Phantom2]

Posted: 4/19/04 at 10:10pm

Sometimes people touch our hearts and we are never ever the same. Enough said.

[Corine2]

Posted: 4/19/04 at 10:12pm

I have seen Mr.Fierstein in many shows and he always is brilliant.
I am proud to own a Sam Norkin of him as EDNA.
He is brilliant and will be missed. Hope to see him in a new show soon.

[DAME]

Posted: 4/19/04 at 10:21pm

Ethel Mermans Rose. Carol Channings Dolly. Yul Brynners King. And now Harvey Fiersteins Edna. Congragulations Harvey on a legendary performance and a truly sensational run. God bless.

[jrb_actor]

Posted: 4/19/04 at 10:26pm

A theatre legend--actor and playwright. Congrats on a brilliant run. Hope to see you onstage or screen soon!

Posted: 4/19/04 at 10:27pm

Updated On: 4/19/04 at 10:27 PM

[PennyLou]

Posted: 4/19/04 at 10:34pm

Just to clear up a sleigh mistake Harvey's last performance is Sunday, May 2nd. I will be sitting in the front row that night to see him in it for the 12th time.

Harvey is a wonderful performer and such a dedicated actor, he will be greatly missed from the show.

Posted: 4/19/04 at 10:46pm

Oh my god you are right. I am going to correct it. Thanks PennyLou.

[PennyLou]

Posted: 4/19/04 at 10:48pm

No problem :)

[BrdwyThtr]

Posted: 4/20/04 at 6:12am

I had known Harvey from many a film. When I went to see the first preview of Hairspray, I couldn't put a face with the name. As soon as he dropped the towel, I was applauding. That was truly a Broadway-caliber performance I'll never forget. Updated On: 4/20/04 at 06:12 AM

[DAME]

Posted: 4/20/04 at 1:16pm

I love the Sissy Duckling. Anyway; I hope they throw a grand party after his last performance. He should auction of his Edna shoes on Ebay for charity.

[FindingNamo]

Posted: 4/20/04 at 1:23pm

Love him. Love his bunny logo. Hope he has a nice rest and comes roaring back in another perfect new vehicle for him.

[newyorkuniq]

Posted: 4/20/04 at 1:23pm

I saw Hairspray last year with it's entire Original cast and have no desire to see it again It just wouldn't live up to the first time. Harvey was spectacular as Edna! Hairspray will never be the same!

[DAME]

Posted: 4/20/04 at 1:27pm

It won't be the same. Just different. With someone else bringing something else to the role. I am looking forward to it. But LOVE HARVEY!

[chinkie azn jai]

Posted: 4/20/04 at 4:52pm

Harvey is an AWESOME performer and has a great work ethic. It is awesome that he has never missed a performance *except that half* He is also very kind to his fans, and responds to almost all his fan mail!!! Hopefully he will be back on stage soon!!! =D

[Corine2]

Posted: 4/21/04 at 12:11am

Harvey will be missed. I am sure Michael will be good but Harvey is an incredible performer. His Edna is "Timeless To Me."
Updated On: 4/21/04 at 12:11 AM

[junglered]

Posted: 4/21/04 at 4:53pm

I feel fortunate that I had a chance to see Harvey create the character of Edna for the musical stage version of Hairspray. I am a big fan of the John Waters movie cult classic from way back and Divine's memorable performance in the role of Edna Turnblad. Harvey may have used Divine's performance as a starting point, but his musical Edna creation was truly his own - and a most "divine" one at that! Thanks Harvey for giving 100% to your audience 8 times a week. Bravo and happy trails!

[Broadwaylady]

Posted: 4/21/04 at 5:03pm

I was fortunate to see Hairspray twice with the original cast. The first time, we were in the first row. The cast noticed us because we were laughing so hard. Harvey even swished his skirt at me. It was funny. He will always be the best "Edna" and is geat in whatever role he is in.

[Benzy92]

Posted: 4/21/04 at 5:13pm

I saw Hairspray twice, and he was flawless both times. What an amazing guy.. I love him so so much!

[Phantom2]

Posted: 4/21/04 at 6:08pm

His connection with the audience is incredible. It's like love at first sight.

[Sumofallthings]

Posted: 4/21/04 at 8:16pm

An incredible actor with an acute and perfectly honed sense of audience. Harvey grabbed me in Hairspray and didn't let go for 3 hours of pure joy. A performance (and performer) for the ages. Right up there with Preston and Cariou!

[Mr Roxy]

Posted: 4/21/04 at 8:18pm

I suggest he assume the lead role in The Producers. This should juice up the bx office a little

[broadwaybondchik]

Posted: 4/21/04 at 11:38pm

Oh yes, love Harvey, the next Edna will have some shoes to fill but im sure will be marvelous. God Bless Harvey!

[Corine2]

Posted: 4/22/04 at 3:48pm

You can catch him as host of the Drama Desk this year.
For tickets go to theatermania.com.