←Recommendations of Kangaroo Boy

In a world where being different can be met with fear and hostility this play is just what the doctor ordered! Its easy when you are being ridiculed for your differences that you are the only person in the world to feel that way but in this play Toby creates a lovely touching scene where Jordan is able to use his own experiences to help out a fellow class mate suffering with the same thing. The play provides a great example about how we should treat other people, different or not and sheds a bit more light into the world!

At some points in our life, we will feel like the "odd" one out and try to just disappear through the blacktop or floor in order to be anywhere else but where we are. Malone's Kangaroo Boy give us small moment in time where friendships can be forged because as we all know we need those friendships in our lives because not matter if we move countries or states or change up something personal about our own selves, we will always, always have to face the assholes out there.

This one act is SO sweet. Anyone who has ever been bullied (which - show me the lucky person who has never been bullied) will immediately empathize with what Kangaroo Boy is going through. He's so miserable and lonely - and then Jordan shows up. They have a conversation which is touching without falling into sappy, and which will leave you feeling all warm inside. Sweet and funny, this play is a great reminder that there are still good people in the world.

An authentic and powerful treatment of bullying and the importance of knowing and accepting yourself. The tone is pitch perfect, affecting but not syrupy or pandering. Wonderful roles for two young actors. Bravo!

I love this play! Bullying is not an easy topic to tackle since many of those plays can come off as some type of public service announcement. This play is sweet and genuine though it packs a punch with its very powerful message. The two characters are fully-realized and the audience gets to witness the sensitive moment they share. Additionally, the humor interspersed throughout made me laugh out loud and helps to alleviate the tension we might feel. I highly recommend any high schools or middle schools looking to generate discussion on this topic produce this play!

A sweet, tender play about differences, acceptance, and coming to a place of understanding as teenagers. The journey these two characters go through is relatable and inspiring. Though enjoyable for any audience, I’d think it would go over especially well in middle school or junior high. A deft touch!

What happens when the traits that make you unique and empower you are weaponized by others and, ironically, begin to undermine your sense of self? This is the central theme of this sensitively-written, one-act. Toby Malone has created two dynamic roles that demand both vulnerability and emotional honesty from its young performers that would consequently make for a powerful performance. I further admired Malone’s stage directions that are used to establish the tone of his memorable play.

An absolutely beautiful play about our differences - and our shared humanity. Deeply recognizable, and quite affecting - much further reaching than one might expect.

A gift of a play that yet again demonstrates Malone’s immense talent for full, layered characterization. So often do plays geared towards younger audiences talk down and preach to them, but “Kangaroo Boy” recognizes the intelligence of its demographic, simply presenting a real scenario of real kids and the toxicity of bullying. Watching Jordan and Kangaroo Boy forge a connection and discover each other is exciting and hope-inducing, and is 100% worth your time. Brilliantly done.

A wonderful TYA script about accepting others' differences and being comfortable in one's own skin! The dialogue feels authentic to teens, and it tackles the topic of bullying in a believable and entertaining way. Young people should see this play! (Adults, too!)