Torch Song Trilogy

International Stud

The set for “International Stud” is sets of platforms that represent the different locations, whether the International Stud bar, Arnold’s dressing room at the drag club, or the men’s apartments.

In his dressing room, Arnold Beckoff is getting ready for his performance as drag queen Virginia Hamm. As he transforms into the character, he talks directly to the audience, offering his experience and thoughts on relationships. He is a bit flippant about what he’s looking for in a man (whether a pretty face or someone mostly sane), but by the end of his speech, Arnold has realized that he is looking for someone “who knows what he wants and ain’t a’scared to go out and get it.” Arnold wants a real relationship with someone who is proud to be with him.

The scene shifts to Ed Reiss. He is at the bar International Stud, where gay men discreetly meet up for anonymous hookups in the back room. Ed talks to someone the audience can’t see. Eventually, he and the mystery man