Casting Complete For Torch Song Trilogy at London’s Menier Chocolate Factory

David Bedella is set to star as Arnold Beckoff in Harvey Fierstein’s one-act play series Torch Song Trilogy at London's Menier Chocolate Factory. In addition to Bedella, Torch Song Trilogy will star Joe McFadden as Ed, Sara Kestelman as Mrs. Beckoff, Tom Harries as Alan, Perry Millward as David and Laura Pyper as Laurel. Directed by Tony-winning actor Douglas Hodge, the production begins performances May 30 and will run through August 12.

Torch Song Trilogy is a collection of three one-act plays, including International Stud, Fugue in a Nursery and Widows and Children First! Set in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, Fierstein’s plays center on Arnold Beckoff (Bedella), a Jewish drag queen living in New York City. Torch Song Trilogy originally opened on Broadway on June 10, 1982 and won two Tony Awards, including Best Play.

Bedella is best known for his Olivier-winning performance in Jerry Springer – The Opera. Bedella’s London stage credits include The Rocky Horror Show and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. His film and TV credits include Thomas & Friends, Batman Begins, Holby City, Red Light Runners and Alexander.

McFadden’s London theater credits include Rent and Rainbow Kiss. His film and TV credits include Casualty, Cranford and Heartbeat. Kestelman’s West End credits include Girl With a Pearl Earring and Copenhagen. She won an Olivier Award for the Donmar production of Cabaret. Harries has appeared on film in Hunky Dory and Parade’s End. Millward’s London credits include Caroline or Change and Mary Poppins. He has appeared on film and TV in John Carter of Mars, Perfume—The Story of a Murderer, Monroe and Downton Abbey. Pyper’s London theater credits include Dan Juan in Soho, Danger: Memory!, Punk Rock and Troilus and Cressida. Her TV credits include 13 Steps Down, Emma, Spooks and Silent Witness.