'The BBC's First Homosexual' was inspired by the research of Professor Marcus Collins, Professor of British History at Loughborough University, whose work uncovered the story of the BBC's first documentary about male homosexuality.
Recorded in 1954, but considered too controversial to broadcast at the time, the programme remained largely forgotten for decades before providing the inspiration for the acclaimed production.
Following a six-city tour of England and an award-winning run in Dublin, the play has continued its success in Edinburgh, where reviewers have praised its powerful storytelling, emotional impact and historical importance.
Among the strongest reviews, The Stage awarded the production four stars, describing it as "remarkably moving" and an "absorbing and insightful drama".
Broadway Baby called it "an important, funny and vital piece of theatre", while Counter Culture awarded five stars, praising the "superb" acting.
The Scotsman described it as "a work of aching sadness", and Tony Loves the Fringe said it was "an important play for our time" that could easily transfer to a major theatre or even become a film.
Also in the audience was BBC talk show star Graham Norton, who later posted on his Instagram account that the show was ‘a beautiful performance of a fascinating untold story.’
The play, written by Stephen M Hornby and directed by Oliver Hurst, uses transcripts from the original BBC programme alongside a fictional coming-of-age story to explore the fear, prejudice and secrecy faced by gay men in 1950s Britain.
Professor Marcus Collins of Loughborough University (left) and playwright Dr Stephen Hornby (right). Image credit: Marcus Collins
Prof Collins said: “Bringing 'The BBC's First Homosexual' to the Edinburgh Fringe after a six-city tour of England and an award-winning run in Dublin has been an overwhelming experience.
“I've met audience members after every performance and have been touched by how meaningful the play is to them.
“Both the reviews and audience responses have drawn powerful parallels between the homophobia of the past and today's culture wars, showing that this history continues to resonate with audiences.”
The reviews
- The Stage ★★★★ | "Remarkably moving"
- The Scotsman ★★★★ | "Aching sadness"
- Broadway Baby ★★★★ | "Funny and vital"
- Counter Culture ★★★★★ | "Superb"
- ScotsGay Arts ★★★★★ | "Utterly superb"
- Binge Fringe ★★★★ | "Sobering reminder"
- Tony Loves the Fringe ★★★★ | "Important play"
- RoViews ★★★★★ | "One of my favourite play experiences of the year"
- George's Theatre Reviews ★★★★ | "This is a wonderful Fringe show"
- Sinners Media ★★★★★ | "Absolutely stunning piece of work"
- From the North ★★★★ | "A vital and important play, showing that we need to both remember, and learn from, our history"