Dear Young Monster

‘A queer hidden gem… powerful and well-thought through… full of exciting and heartfelt queer storytelling’

‘A truly important piece of theatre… deeply impactful for all audiences, no matter their age, sex or gender’

‘Bold, poetic, and unflinchingly honest, an hour of theatre that leaves you breathless and thinking long after the lights come up… both poignant and powerful. MacHale brilliantly illustrates the claustrophobia of being trapped in a body that feels alien, the yearning to be understood, and the fear of being seen as monstrous. It’s a concept that could easily veer into melodrama, but here it’s handled with nuance and wit. The writing is sharp, poetic, and often darkly funny, with moments of levity that land just when they’re needed’

‘Compelling… an enlightening and engaging insight into what it is to be a trans person… reveals MacHale to be a very good writer’

‘Deeply personal and well crafted’

‘A powerful, focused monologue… exudes charm and innovation… beautifully crafted… more than earns its rapturous reception’

‘Gripping and incredibly authentic… brilliantly structured… an insightful look at what it is truly like to live as a transgender person – both the struggles and the joys. It should be compulsory viewing for everyone – especially young people’

‘A unique piece of theatre describing one person’s trans experience with honesty, authenticity and power… extraordinary’

‘Multi-layered, funny, touching, and poignant… as important as it is enjoyable and entertaining’

‘Realistic and honest… I’d happily use this play for GCSE and A-level work… lots of scenes to choose from to explore monologue work as well as to springboard students’ own work for devising… The themes of the play will open up much discussion’

‘Bold and unconventional… There are many memorable and thought-provoking moments that help to open a window of understanding into the character’s world… Seemingly simple things like using a passport or a public toilet bring other challenges and difficulties into sharp focus… It reads very well as the writing is evocative and imaginative’

‘A vital, visceral, one-person semi-autobiographical play that demands to be read and studied… its visceral power is evident even on the page… a raw and intimate play that offers a valuable opportunity to explore the labyrinthine complexities of transgender identity and the emotional isolation of difference, contributing meaningfully to the education of young people around diversity, equity, and inclusion’

Pete MacHale is an actor and writer. His debut solo show Dear Young Monster was first staged at the Bristol Old Vic in 2024 before playing at Soho Theatre, London, in 2025.

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