Toxic - play review

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Nathaniel J Hall, best known for starring in the hit TV series, It's A Sin, returns to the stage following his 5-star writing debut, First Time, which brought critically-acclaimed success. Openly discussing his experiences living with HIV, both pieces explore the emotional and physical depths that are impacted by this. However, Toxic is his latest installment to the storytelling, bringing a darker approach with an edge of grit to drive the thoughtproking narrative.

This is the kind of production where just walking into the auditorium radiates safety and inclusivity, similar to My Son's A Queer. Every person in the room knows exactly what the show entails when booking, so the audience becomes an amalgamation of unity through LGBTQ+ appreciation: a particularly poignant feat, given the current destructive force towards the community in the political sphere. It is places like these that bring realisation of how important these spaces are to share authentic voices regarding the truth of experiences, however heavy, to offer extra necessary kindness to one another.

Raw and unflinching honesty permeates the script in every way. From the opening line, it grips with an air of mystery for what is about to unfold - “This is the story of how we met, fell in love, and f*cked it up”. Humour is a significant tool for fostering balance amid the turbulence. The tight yet explosive grip between the characters (labelled 'The Playwright' and 'The Performer') when deeply bonding through trauma requires something to lighten the baggage. Semi-autobiographical in nature, this two-hander starring, Nathaniel J Hall and Josh-Susan Enright, blends the damage of stormy pasts with the hope of a future free from it all, debating whether understanding one another can ever really bring it back from boiling point. "But sometimes survival means knowing when to leave".

With plays generally in decline across the theatre industry, those like this one actively demonstrate their necessity. Toxic is unique in its themes, despite the high prevalence of domestic abuse in same-sex relationships. As much of this goes unreported, it certainly isn't discussed through the arts, thus making this especially fascinating as a show concept. Cleverly crafted, the multifaceted discussion allows for a dynamic view into the characters' relationship, both with themselves and each other. There is no ultimate blame for either party, as both sides confess to their complicated, messy existence, which holds them together for as long as possible. This poses interesting questions of responsibility and influence, while acknowledging the damage that society causes from racism, the stigma of HIV, homophobia or other derogatory remarks towards them that have caused long-lasting pain.

With a versatile yet minimalistic set and few costume changes, Nathaniel and Josh-Susan are left battling their conficts in the shell of their shared abode. From pill-popping to partying and preferences, a lot is unpacked across the 1.5 hours (without interval). Sparks of colour through the walls, lighting, and a few flambouyant wears reflect the electric feel between the couple as it seeps towards toxicity. Direction by Scott Le Crass provides contrasting moments of bopping to Britney, then holding your breath in anticipation for what is coming next. This is paired with an abundance of creative choices from Dibby Theatre's team that draws the most out of the space when used alongside the emotively skilled presentation from the cast.

Once again, Nathaniel J Hall has written a punchy piece that will undoubtedly be remembered by all that see it. While it's certainly not going to appeal to everyone, if queer, contemporary, impactful and true-to-life theatre is your thing, supporting his work, Toxic and projects beyond, will be a fantastically worthwhile choice.