Harvey Fierstein - Life Only Changes When You're Brave Enough to Say Yes

Today we have a very special guest. From the stages of off-Broadway to the bright lights of Broadway, from his unmistakable voice to his performances in 30+ movies, Harvey Fierstein has spent a lifetime telling stories that matter. With four Tony Awards to his name—two for writing, two for acting—his work in Torch Song Trilogy, La Cage aux Folles, and Hairspray has redefined representation on stage. But beyond the accolades, there’s the man: a Brooklyn-born artist whose journey has been shaped by family, resilience, and an unyielding belief in telling the truth. Harvey also has a deep love for sewing and costume design. Before becoming famous Fierstein studied art at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York and worked as a costume designer in the off-off-Broadway world. He has spoken about his passion for sewing in interviews, reminiscing about how he used to design and create costumes for drag performers and theater productions which helped shape his deep understanding of theatrical presentation and character development. His early work in costume design was part of his immersion in the vibrant New York theater community of the 1970s, where he collaborated with experimental and LGBTQ+ artists.Even as his career in theater took off with Torch Song Trilogy and Hairspray, sewing remained a part of his life. He has mentioned that working with fabric and creating garments is a meditative and creative outlet for him. His appreciation for costume design also extends to his theatrical work, where he often acknowledges the impact of great costume designers in bringing characters to life.So today we go beyond the footlights to explore the moments that made him—his early days, the influence of his parents, why Ridgefield, Connecticut became his adopted hometown and, why sewing has been an anchoring thread in his life. (2:15) We welcome the inimitable Harvey Fierstein! He shares how he first picked up sewing—starting with an industrial machine in his father’s handkerchief factory—before setting his sights on becoming a Disney animator. But, things changed for him and as Harvey puts it, “Life only changes when you’re brave enough to say yes.”(5:27) A deep dive into Harvey’s quilting journey, from discovering HGTV and Alex Anderson to creating story-driven quilts today. His first quilt? Alex Anderson’s Strips that Sizzle!(9:25) Growing up in a conservative Jewish household, Harvey learned the power of storytelling from his family. Education, art, music, and Broadway were all part of his upbringing, shaping the creative force he became.(11:45) Family isn’t just who you’re born to—it’s also who you find. Harvey talks about his “found family” in the theatre, the people who call him “mama” and “papa,” and what it means to always be true to yourself.(13:32) Ever wonder what a Harvey Fierstein Stitch & Bitch session looks like? He spills all about his quilting experiments and creative process.(16:03) From bold colors to playful designs, Harvey shares his favorite fabrics and how he keeps things fresh alternating between challenging and just plain silly projects.(20:15) Picking a favorite quilt is like picking a favorite child—but Harvey gives it a shot!(23:20) The costumes that left a mark: Harvey reflects on the magic of theatrical costumes, the collaborative art of design, and why theatre itself is an act of faith.(27:07) Favorite roles—on stage, in film, and yes, even Death to Smoochy!(30:30) Writing his memoir I Was Better Last Night was a journey in itself. Harvey shares what inspired him to put his life on paper.(31:20) When did he finally feel accepted? And what really led him to move Torch Song Trilogy to Broadway? It’s not the story you think!(32:31) A mother always knows! The moment Harvey’s mom saw her own earrings on him during Torch Song Trilogy—and her priceless reaction.(34:00) What’s the secret to his success? According to Harvey, it’s all about taking that unexpected fork in the road.(38:38) The quilting class that changed everything: What Harvey learned from Kaffe Fassett, Brandon Mably and Liza Lucy.(39:10) Quilting vs. theatre—two creative worlds, two very different communities. Harvey compares the two.(40:54) The key to keeping every performance fresh? Harvey reveals how he does it.(43:06) Why Bridgefield, CT has been home for 40 years—and how Harvey’s house reflects is unique perspective on life and art.(46:00) “As much as it hurts, tell the truth.” Harvey explains how this philosophy, shaped by his father, has guided his life and career.(47:25) What’s next—what’s left on Harvey’s bucket list?(52:18) Want to connect with Harvey? Find him on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe & Listen: Don’t miss future episodes! Follow Sew & So Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests.