Review: The Strange Case of Dr Dillon, Camden People’s Theatre

Camden Fringe 2024

One of the main arguments wielded against trans rights today is the misguided notion that transgender identities are somehow a novel phenomenon. The Strange Case of Dr Dillon at Camden People’s Theatre sets out to shatter this misconception with a bang, whisking us back to the 1940s and the extraordinary life of Michael Dillon – the first trans man known to have medically transitioned.

Unlike a traditional biography, the plot doesn’t just recount Dillon’s life; it catapults the audience through decades of struggle, innovation, and self-discovery. The play ingeniously weaves together quotes from Dillon’s autobiography, fictionalized scenes inferred from historical records, and newspaper headlines of the era. This is further enhanced by ironic asides, fourth-wall breaks, and even bits of slapstick, keeping the audience engaged throughout.

From a child in 1915 refusing to be labelled a girl, to a pioneering doctor in the 1940s, to a seeker of enlightenment in Buddhist monasteries, Dillon’s journey unfolds in a series of rapid-fire scenes that blend poignancy with unexpected humour. The clever use of real quotes alongside dramatized moments creates a compelling narrative that feels both authentic and theatrically dynamic. The production’s approach not only entertains but also effectively contextualizes Dillon’s experiences within the broader societal attitudes of his time and serves a practical purpose in letting the audience know roughly what time period each part is set in.

Cloud Quinn‘s portrayal of Dillon is nothing short of mesmerizing. With remarkable range, he captures the essence of a man who refused to be defined by societal norms, conveying both Dillon’s wit and his vulnerability. The support from Kay Elúvian, who deftly switches between multiple roles including (among others) an exasperated aunt, a love interest and a slimy news reporter, adds depth and context to the play’s world.

One of the production’s strengths lies in its poetic exploration of how Dillon paved the way for the treatment of other trans individuals, both as a patient and as a doctor, effectively highlighting both the struggles and achievements of its protagonist. It’s particularly poignant in its depiction of societal and media pressure and invasions of privacy that trans people face – a theme that remains disturbingly relevant today.

While the play does an admirable job of covering the key events in Dillon’s life, it occasionally feels rushed due to the time constraints and the storytelling methods used. Some scenes could benefit from better placement or pacing to allow the audience more time to absorb the weight of Dillon’s experiences.

Despite these minor issues, it remains a powerful and important piece of theatre. It serves as a reminder of the long history of gender-affirming care and the pioneers who made it possible. In a time when trans identities are still mocked in parliament and access to healthcare is increasingly difficult, this play offers a crucial historical context to current debates.

The show’s design, while minimalist, effectively supports the narrative. The use of simple props and costume changes allows for smooth transitions between different periods and locations in Dillon’s life and is a source of occasional comedy.

The Strange Case of Dr Dillon is a must-see for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ history, medical progress, or simply incredibly compelling human stories. It successfully balances education and entertainment, leaving the audience with a deeper understanding of the personal life and achievements of a remarkable individual who helped shape modern transgender healthcare.

Written, directed and produced by: Cloud Quinn

The Strange Case of Dr Dillon plays at Camden People’s Theatre until 31 July as part of Camden Fringe. Further information and tickets available here.

You can read more about this show in our recent Q&A with Cloud Quinn here.