Toxic

This is the story of how we met, fell in love, and f*cked it up. But it’s not just our story. It’s his, and his and theirs. Maybe it’s yours… Maybe.

Manchester 2017. A chance meeting on a hook-up app sets two damaged thirty-something hearts on a spectacular collision course. He is HIV+ and drowning in shame. They are queer and one microaggression away from a full-on meltdown. Born into Thatcher’s Britain of race riots and rampant homophobia and growing up in the shadow of Aids and Section 28, the pair form a trauma bond so tight, they might just survive it all. But sometimes survival means knowing when to leave.

This explosive semi-autobiographical show written by Nathaniel J Hall (First Time, It’s A Sin) and performed by Nathaniel with Josh-Susan Enright blends storytelling (dir. by Scott Le Crass), movement (Plaster Cast), stunning design (Lu Herbert), visual projections and lighting (dede ././ and Tracey Gibbs) and an original pumping soundtrack by SHAR.

Pulling back the glittery curtain of pride to reveal a place where many still suffer the devastating impact of generational HIV stigma, racism, homophobia and toxic gender norms, this powerful and passionate play inspired by true events celebrates survival and the resilience of the queer spirit.

Age guidance: 18+ Emotional warnings: scenes of recreational drug use, scenes of a sexual nature, strong language, use of homophobic and stigmatising language, references to sexual abuse, frank discussion of racism, scenes of emotional and physical abuse. Health warnings: Includes flashing lights and amplified sound. Running time: 1 hour, 30 minutes (no interval)