“[this] gem of a play…creates space for breath, messiness and humanity underneath the slogans.”
—Lily Janiak, SF Chronicle
"Becoming a Man is a heart-rending, eye-opening, thought-provoking night of live theatre that...needs to be seen, felt, and fully absorbed by as many Bay Area people as the Z Space theatre can hold."
—Theatre Eddys
A Z Space production
Becoming a Man
Written by P. Carl
Directed by Lyam B. Gabel
May 28 - June 14, 2026
Z Space’s Steindler Stage
For 50 years, P. Carl lived as a girl and then a queer woman, building a career and a loving marriage while waiting to realize himself in full. When he decides to affirm his gender, his transition puts everything—family, career, friendships—at stake. A stage production based on the memoir, Becoming a Man is a poignant and honest story about the courage and community it takes to become one’s true self and poses the question: “When we change, can the people we love come with us?” Following a world premiere production at American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) at Harvard University, P. Carl’s acclaimed story comes to life in its West Coast premiere at Z Space.
Generously funded in part by Battery Powered, The Sheri and Les Biller Family Foundation, The Sam Mazza Foundation, and The Zellerbach Family Foundation.
Thank you also to our Media Sponsor: The Bay Area Reporter.
“This wasn’t my first ‘sir,’ but it was the one that began my life.
On March 16, 2017, I became a man.”
—P. Carl
Becoming A Man Cast
*Member, Actors' Equity Association
Post-Show Conversation Series: Here’s the T
Every Thursday and Friday night following the performance of Becoming a Man (excluding previews).
Grab a drink and join playwright P. Carl and Z Space Executive Director Shafer Mazow in the lobby for an informal post-show community discussion. We'll talk about the themes of the play, the beauty and complexity of trans lives in today’s world, and other topics of interest to folks of all genders.
Check out our BIRDZ exhibit
Did you know Playwright P. Carl is also a skilled bird photographer? While at the theater for the show, be sure to check out his photography and even take one home with you. Photos are available for $210 while supplies last and all proceeds directly benefit Z Space and this production of Becoming a Man.
Content Note: Becoming A Man contains flashing lights and loud sounds , as well as theatrical depictions of panic disorder, illness, parental abuse, and psychiatric holds. This show is recommended for ages 14 and up.
This production also includes discussions of suicide, transphobia, and PTSD. If you would like additional resources, please look here: https://dothebay.com/p/queer-resources-in-the-bay-area
As a trans-led and primarily LGBTQ+ organization in the heart of San Francisco, Z Space is proud to present this new work by a trans storyteller at a time when gender expansive communities are under attack.
Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to support the costs of this vital production.
Generously funded in part by:
