Will The Real Man Stand? Tickets

The theater has long been a platform for communication, Art in all its forms allow us to explore societal issues from different angles and perspectives. One of the prevalent societal issues that refuse to go away anytime soon is toxic masculinity.

But what does this even mean, toxic masculinity? Toxic masculinity refers to harmful attitudes, behaviors, social norms, and cultural expectations associated with traditional masculinity in some societies that limit the emotional range of men and encourage aggressive actions, dominance, and power over others, including women and other non-binary individuals.

Theater has not shied away from exploring this issue, and one notable production that tackled this issue beautifully is "Will the Real Man Stand?" Written by Brian Shankman and directed by Matthew Evan Taylor, it is an exciting piece with characters living out the lives of real people struggling with toxic masculinity in their respective ways.

This play emphasizes the gravity of societal expectations placed on men to meet certain standards; otherwise, they would be deemed unmanly or weak. It depicts men at various levels of society, from CEOs to blue-collar workers, as they navigate their lives while trying to cope with these pressures to fit into specific masculine molds.

Through a series of diverse monologues, we witness men exposing themselves emotionally in ways they are usually expected to suppress. We see them struggling with tasks deemed to be feminine, like cooking or childcare. They deal with their emotions in unhealthy ways and have difficulties articulating their feelings without fear of judgment or reproach.

The play doesn't just discuss toxic masculinity on the surface level but delves deep into how societal expectations directly affect the current epidemic of male suicide rates, sexual violence, racism, substance abuse, and homelessness in men. It shows how the lack of communication between men causes these issues to arise, allowing toxic masculinity to thrive.

"Will the Real Man Stand?" is inspiring and uplifting as it encourages men to break free from the narrow confines of conventional masculinity. It inspires them to be their true authentic selves and shows that vulnerability is not weak but a strength that helps us connect to ourselves and others.

In conclusion, the modern theater remains an ideal platform for exploring societal issues like toxic masculinity. "Will the Real Man Stand?" is a beautiful example of how a play can prompt conversations on this weighty issue while providing both insight and entertainment for the audience. It highlights the importance of stepping outside of traditional male stereotypes and into authenticity. Society can only benefit from having more honest men who embrace their full range of emotions.