A Friend of Dorothy is a poignant and intergenerational one-act dramedy that bridges the gap between the radical activism of the 1960s and the modern struggles of today’s LGBTQ+ youth.
Theatres will enjoy this play because it offers:
● Compelling, Multi-Generational Roles: The play features two powerhouse roles for women: Brit, a 19-year-old navigating the confusing pressures of modern dating and "rainbow mafia" culture, and Tia, a sharp-witted, "bad-ass" elder who lived through the Stonewall Riots and the criminalization of homosexuality in Canada .
● A "Living History" Narrative: It transforms a simple conversation between an aunt and niece into a vibrant history lesson. Through Tia’s scrapbooks and memories, audiences are transported to the Sapphire Tavern in Toronto and the streets of Manhattan during the 1969 riots, making history feel personal and urgent .
● Universal Themes of Identity and Courage: While the play centers on the "secret language" of the gay community (such as being a "friend of Dorothy"), its core message is about the universal desire for authentic love and the courage required to be one's true self.
● High Producibility: With a minimalist single-room setting and a cast of only two actors, it is an ideal selection for festivals, community theaters, or educational tours looking for a high-impact script with low technical overhead.
● Emotional Resonance: The play moves seamlessly from humorous modern slang ("sus," "HR violation") to deeply moving reflections on lost friends, religious reconciliation, and the 33-year wait for marriage equality .
A Friend of Dorothy is more than a coming-out story; it is a celebration of the strong women who fought the battles of the past so the next generation could have the freedom to be themselves.
Keywords: Lesbian, gay, transgender, hope, coming of age, stonewall, Harvey Milk, Jacke Shane, LGBTQ, Yorkville,
Genre: Drama, Historical
Acts: 1
Run time: 40 minutes
Cast size: 2 actors
Female roles: 2
Trans/Non-Binary/Gender Non-Conforming roles: 2
Casting notes: The play is about a Lesbian aunt helping her niece understand some feelings she is having. The woman is 60 ish and the Niece is late teens. The aunt describes the events that lead Canada to be an open country for LGBTQ and the brave people who lead the way.