On May 26th, 2024, the Stables Theatre in Hastings became a sanctuary for truth, emotion, and connection as The Monologues of Men took to the stage. The first time that The Men’s Room had gathered a troupe of like minded, local men, brave enough to bare all with some heartfelt stories.
Change doesn’t always need grand gestures. Sometimes, it begins with a story.
The Monologues of Men – A Powerful Night of Real Stories
Presented by the Men’s Room Hastings and St Leonards Project, the event invited local men to step forward and share their deeply personal experiences with mental health, grief, friendship, identity, and growth. Each monologue stood as a raw, heartfelt snapshot into the lives of real men navigating real challenges — often in silence.
"I came alone and left feeling like I was part of something bigger. Every man should experience this."
The theatre was packed, with not a single seat left. But beyond the sold-out audience was something far more powerful — the collective silence, the tears, the nods of recognition, and the emotional applause after each piece. It was a night that resonated deeply with people of all ages and backgrounds.
Each monologue — performed by the men who wrote them — was a striking reminder that behind every smile, every handshake, every “I’m fine,” there can be untold stories waiting to be shared.
The film and stage proved what the world needs to hear — men do talk, when given the space to be heard.
The event followed the momentum of the award-winning film Men Don’t Talk?, which gave voice to real men speaking frankly about their mental health. That honesty and emotional depth translated beautifully to the stage, creating an unforgettable evening of theatre rooted in vulnerability and courage.
Why It Matters
For many men, speaking about mental health remains one of the biggest challenges they face. Shame, stigma, and silence can be powerful barriers — but events like The Monologues of Men prove that when safe spaces are created, incredible things can happen.
This was more than just a performance. It was a lifeline. A mirror. A reminder that none of us are alone in our struggles.
And as we look ahead to the Baton of Hope arriving in Hastings in September 2025 — a national movement aimed at ending suicide and encouraging open conversations — the timing and relevance of events like this could not be more important.
We’re just getting started. The success of The Monologues of Men has sparked new ideas and deeper conversations — and we want you to be part of it.
✅ Join us at future events
✅ Share your story, or encourage someone else to
✅ Start a conversation — at home, at work, at the pub
✅ Support local mental health initiatives
✅ Follow the journey as we build toward the Baton of Hope 2025
Let’s keep the momentum going. Because when men talk — really talk — lives can change.