SCANDALOUS BOY by David Atfield- the international premiere of this award-winning play from Australia!

 History. Passion. Power. A Love That Changed an Empire.

Be among the first in the world to experience the International Premiere of SCANDALOUS BOY — a bold, contemporary take on one of history’s most legendary love stories.

Written by acclaimed Australian playwright David Atfield, Scandalous Boy brings the intoxicating relationship between Roman Emperor Hadrian and the beautiful Antinous into a provocative, 21st-century light — where a statue comes to life and secrets from the past echo into today.

“Thoughtful and joyously explicit.” — Sydney Morning Herald
“Hugely entertaining, informative, and refreshing.” — Canberra Critics Circle

🎭 Directed by Benjamin Mills, featuring a powerhouse Chicago cast led by Jordan Gleaves (Seven Guitars, Blues for an Alabama Sky) and introducing Jose Alexander Martinez as Antinous.

Expect an intimate and immersive theatrical experience—each performance is limited to just 25 audience members, placing you right in the heart of the action. This daring reimagining of ancient queer love and modern power dynamics features bold performances from rising stars in Chicago theater. Behind the scenes, an award-winning creative team brings the story vividly to life with passion and precision. 

Content Warning: This production includes depictions of sexual content, nonconsensual acts, and physical violence. Viewer discretion is advised.
 

🎟 Tickets selling fast!
$30 General Admission | $25 Seniors & Students

The play reflects on the legacy of historical figures and how their personal lives, especially their relationships, are remembered or erased by history. The deification of Antinous, though controversial, speaks to the desire to preserve a personal connection in the face of public scrutiny.

Atfield’s writing captures both the political and personal complexities of Hadrian’s reign, while also offering a sensitive portrayal of the relationship between the two central characters. The play ultimately provides a window into the private life of one of the most enigmatic emperors in Roman history, while addressing timeless themes of love, grief, and power.

David Atfield is an Australian playwright, director, and dramaturg known for his compelling works in theater. His writing often explores historical and emotional themes, blending the personal with the political in complex ways. Atfield's work spans a variety of genres, but he is especially recognized for his skill in crafting intimate, character-driven dramas.

In addition to Scandalous Boy, Atfield has been involved in numerous productions throughout his career. He is also known for his work as a director, having helmed many performances in addition to writing them. His contributions to the Australian theater scene have earned him several awards, including the prestigious Canberra Critics' Circle Award.

Atfield is noted for his commitment to exploring nuanced characters and their struggles with identity, power, and relationships, often drawing from historical contexts. His work is highly regarded for its depth and emotional resonance, and he is considered an important figure in the development of contemporary Australian drama.