Compellingly theatrical piece that plays with naturalistic dialogue rhythms, dynamic movement, and these tiny, subtle transformative moments especially amongst the three boys at the center of the piece. The first two thirds of the play illustrates, without judgement, the dynamics involving socio-cultural issues and mental-emotional health in athletics, male relationships, and between mentors and mentees. The treatment of intersectional identity and issues not often discussed alongside sports--namely body image, sexuality, and mental health--is thorough and poignant. The final third is a chilling examination of the long-term fallout of toxic structures being ingrained in folks from a young age.

In "Young Men & Recovery," Scanlan eschews many of the inspirational tropes of high school football narratives (such as "Varsity Blues" and "Friday Night Lights") and explores the harm that toxic masculinity in athletics can have on the players. Most of the play is a slice-of-life depiction of a weigh-in and football practice, but towards the end, the play takes a devastating turn that forces the audience to reconsider everything they saw up until that point. Your heart can't help but break for these young men whose lives are irrevocably changed by the sport.

Playwrights Foundation highly recommends YOUNG MEN & RECOVERY, which excelled to the Finalist round (top 35) for the 44th annual Bay Area Playwrights Festival out of 755 plays. Our community of readers felt this play best represented the mission of our festival. This work engaged us, inspired us, moved us, and was an outstanding example of transformative storytelling. Our local Bay Area Literary Council commends YOUNG MEN & RECOVERY as a compelling, relevant, cathartic new work which should be produced now. Congratulations! #BAPF2021