Stage: Kit Redstones play Testosterone at The Old Market challenges our perceptions of gender
How do you perceive your own gender? Do you actually know what non-binary means or cis? The world right now is at a massive crossroads when it comes to gender and particularly in respecting how any individual presents themself and their pronoun of choice. But this is only the tip of the iceberg, confusing for many of us but one that we certainly have to learn about and grasp, and for those undergoing change… well not only can it be confusing, it
can be distressing and extremely so.
Last year at the Edinburgh Festival a play was presented that certainly highlighted this, challenged audiences and opinions and garnered much praise. The Guardian described it, sayign this ‘multi-layered and gripping physical theatre piece is much more than what Redstone wickedly satirises as another story about “brave little trans soldiers” which reminds us that transitioning is a beginning not an ending’.
Drawing on autobiographical experiences, this is the true story of transgender writer-performer Kit Redstone’s first entrance into a male gym changing room at the age of 33. What first appears as a routine ritual of four men changing after a work out, then transforms into an epic coming-of-age quest for a masculine identity in an environment that affords little
space to hide.
One year after his first injection of testosterone, Kit is perceived completely as a man. However, with this triumph comes a crisis of masculinity: what kind of man is he?
Testosterone combines storytelling, comedy and physical theatre to offer an intimate, life-enhancing glimpse into Kit’s unique perspective. It also tells a powerful story about gender itself, charting Kit’s own experiences as a new man stepping for the first time into the world of masculinity.
Irreverent and refreshingly honest, Testosterone explores the sometimes toxic world of men and looks at the benefits and restraints Kit has observed whilst becoming a man.
At the forefront of the UK’s transgender theatre movement, Kit Redstone’s work is leading the way towards making more inclusive, respectful theatre.
Testosterone won Best Theatre Show at the Pleasance Indie Awards 2017, was nominated for the Peter Brook Empty Space Award 2017, and was featured as part of the British Council Showcase at Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2017.
Testosterone, 3-5 March
The Old Market, Upper Market Street, Hove, 01273 201 801
theoldmarket.com
