by Nathaniel J Hall ‘This is the story of how we met, fell in love, and f*ck*d it up. But it’s not just our story. It’s his, and his and theirs. Maybe it’s yours…’ Manchester, 2017. During a hot and sweaty queer warehouse party, two damaged hearts collide. He is HIV+ and drowning in shame. They are one microaggression away from a full-on meltdown. Together, they form a bond so tight, they might just survive it all. But sometimes survival means knowing when to leave. Pulling back the glittery curtain of pride to reveal the devastating impact of generational HIV stigma, racism, homophobia and repressive gender norms, Toxic is a powerful, passionate play celebrating survival and the resilience of the queer spirit. Inspired by true events, it was first performed at HOME, Manchester, in 2023, before touring the UK in 2025, directed by Scott Le Crass, and performed by the playwright alongside Josh-Susan Enright.
