WITH a characterisation of Liza Minnelli's father, a staged fondle at a mimed urinal and Boy George prepped for a post-show Q&A, The Temperamentals boasts more gay themes than your average night out in Soho.

Telling the relatively unknown story of how The Mattachine Society was founded, against the pre-Stonewall backdrop of communist America, activist Harry Hay and designer Rudi Gernreich struggle with oppression of those around them and each other.

As their relationship develops so does the society's political struggle, causing friction and ultimately divide.

It's easy to see why this production was such a romping success at the International Dublin Gay Theatre Festival.

The minimalist set allows movement through location and time and David Ames shines as the costumier Rudi Gernreich, who is torn between career and love.

His charismatic performance balances the historical and personal aspects of Marans' taxing script beautifully.

However, his on-stage lover, Nicholas Cass-Beggs, struggles to gain such a firm grip on the driven Harry Hays and with a context driven dialogue, it seems the play is trying to be the activist instead of telling the story of one.

Nevertheless, a thought-provoking post-show discussion proves that productions of this nature are still relevant. Politician Brian Paddick pointed out that, "Unless we keep up the fight [for gay rights], things will go back again."

When questioned by an audience member on society's derogatory use of the word 'gay', the panel, which also included Patrick Wilde, observed its original definition, jovial or happy, prior to the homosexual connotations which were later connected with it.

Boy George went on to point out: "It's all about how you say it and why you say it."

With regards to The Temperamentals: why it is said is admirable, an inspirational story to share.

Unfortunately, how it is said, during Jon Marans’ flirtations between docudrama and fictional love story, is contrived and forced.

For information on upcoming shows at Greenwich Theatre and to book, call 020 8858 7755 or visit greenwichtheatre.org.uk