Online criticism erupts over Windsor play’s take on toxic masculinity

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A Windsor play on modern male identity — and the pressure of masculinity, race, privilege, and generational conflict — has sparked intense online debate, drawing both praise and criticism for its approach to sensitive social issues. 

“The phrase ‘toxic masculinity’ is a big trigger,” said Michael K. Potter, managing director of the theatre group Post Productions. “There’s been all this criticism about us for even using the concept of toxic masculinity and critiquing ideas of masculinity.

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“People are calling us all sorts of names and are saying all the different buzz words that fly around — ‘woke-leftist,’ ‘man-bashing.’”

The play ‘Which Way, Millennial Man?’ — written by Jonathan Tessier — follows Chris, an aspiring writer who thinks his success lies in telling the story of Joe, the father of a school shooter. As their interviews evolve into deeper discussions about masculinity, white privilege, and infidelity, Joe persuades Chris to start questioning his relationship with his wife.

“This is the most controversial play that we’ve done in terms of online commentary,” Potter said. “We’re not trying to please everybody, right? We’re not a sitcom. We don’t do that kind of thing.

“But what we love is controversy and conversation between people who’ve actually seen the play.”

The online debate started after the group shared a review of the play on its Facebook page Feb. 27. The post quickly drew attention, amassing nearly 200 comments — some praising the play’s willingness to address controversial issues, others simply insulting the playwright and theatre company.

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“Toxic masculinity isn’t a thing, except in the deranged minds of angry cat-hoarding feminists,” wrote one commenter named Jake. “Since this is the current year and everyone is sick of woke bigotry, how about keep that ignorant, sexist crap to yourselves?”

“Ah yes, man-bashing, because the world hasn’t gotten enough of that for the last two decades,” wrote another named Grant.

Both appeared in the comment thread, prompting a response from the play’s writer.

Tessier said his play had nothing to do with “man-bashing,” adding that he would never write a play with such an intention.

“If anything this play is about having more empathy for men,” Tessier wrote. “It is a study into how men can be manipulated into believing they have to adhere to certain beliefs and actions, which can result in violent repercussions.

“In fact, in a lot of the press for this play, I highlighted how some people believe being a straight white male is easy — and in many regards that is true — but that statement overlooks the pressure and societal expectations place on men to constantly prove their masculinity in everyday life.”

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While the group is open to criticism, both Potter and the play’s creative director, Fay Lynn, urge those who are quick to voice opinions without having seen the play to experience it firsthand.

They believe doing so will offer a fresh perspective and encourage more informed feedback.

“I don’t expect everyone to like what we do,” Potter said. “I don’t want them to, but I would like them to know what they’re talking about and then critique us.”

The award-winning production at the Shadowbox Theatre, located at 1501 Howard Ave. in Windsor, continues with three performances March 6-8. All shows begin at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased through postproductionswindsor.ca or at the door.

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