Written in Nathaniel’s unmistakeable heartbreaking and hilarious style, the play is a rollercoaster ride through their tumultuous and passionate relationship as they struggle to tame the ghosts of their pasts.
He is HIV+ and drowning in shame. They are queer and one microaggression from a full-on breakdown.
When their lives collide, the pair form a bond so tight they might just survive it all. But the collective trauma of their troubled pasts weighs heavy, and soon they find themselves taking the pain out on one another: sexually, emotionally, psychologically, even physically.
With a vow to stay together no matter what (heteros taught us in sickness and in health, right?) the relationship spirals but the pair still cling to the belief that the bond they’ve formed will help them survive it all. But sometimes survival means knowing when to leave.
Pulling back the glittery curtain of the modern pride movement, Toxic reveals a place where many still suffer the devastating impact of generational HIV stigma, racism, homophobia and toxic gender norms.
Inspired by true events in Nathaniel’s life and from stories gathered through creative outreach, this powerful and passionate play celebrates survival and the resilience of the queer spirit.
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.