Always a Boy Play Premieres in Denver
The stage production exploring a family's journey is now running at the Pluss Theatre.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Children’s Theater
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The stage adaptation Always a Boy has launched its production run at the Pluss Theatre inside the JCC Denver. The play chronicles the experiences of a young trans man named Joshua and his mother Rachel.
Why it matters
The creators developed the project to provide a positive narrative centered on family support while avoiding common tropes of rejection. This production seeks to highlight themes of love and acceptance within the trans experience.
The production underwent 45 distinct script drafts during its development phase. This process included extensive reviews from a dedicated focus group of LGBTQ+ artists and writers.
The players
Jo Ivester
She is the author of the memoir titled Never a Girl, Always a Boy.
Joshua
He is the central character in the play whose experiences as a trans man are depicted.
Rachel
She is the character representing Joshua's mother in the stage adaptation.
The details
Adapted from Jo Ivester’s memoir Never a Girl, Always a Boy, the play was refined by identifying key moments that resonated with readers during book-talk events. The script was further polished through direct feedback from a focus group of trans and queer artists.
Timeline
The play originally premiered in 2024 at the Ground Floor Theatre in Austin.
The Denver production began its run on October 9, 2026.
The performance run at the JCC Denver concludes on October 25, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This production aligns with a broader shift in the regional theater landscape toward authentic, trans-affirming narratives. It reflects a departure from legacy scripts that frequently leaned on themes of rejection or tragedy.
Local residents can view the performance at the Pluss Theatre inside the JCC Denver through October 25, 2026. Ticket availability and scheduling details can be found through the venue's box office.
The takeaway
The play demonstrates how memoirs can be adapted for the stage by prioritizing emotional connection and community feedback. Its focus on family love provides a model for future storytelling that emphasizes supportive relationships.
Further reading
Find more local productions at Denver Children’s Theater.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Bucket List Community News.
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Do you believe theater productions are effective at changing public attitudes toward transgender issues in your area?
