Written and performed by lawyer/actor/filmmaker/writer/storytelling coach Gail Thomas, PATIENT 13 tells her story, a tale worth seeing and thinking about. To quote Gail, “When I first write a personal story, it’s just for me to make sense of the world, to gain perspective, to laugh instead of cry. In performance, my goal is to entertain, inspire, and empower others to appreciate the nuances and absurdity of life.” In 2024, the Rogue Machine proudly presents Gail Thomas’ very personal story of survival.
Gail Thomas – Photo by David Haverty
Gail has certainly achieved all her goals and more in PATIENT 13. The full length solo show began life as four separate stories which she shared on New York City storytelling stages. But something happened when she came to Los Angeles in 2023, and PATIENT 13 eventually emerged full grown. But Gail says it better herself: “PATIENT 13 is my gift to people who grapple with tough decisions, complicated relationships, and self-love. I hope that it helps people see that they are not alone.”
Gail Thomas – Photo by David Haverty
Chronically single Gail’s strengths have always been staying busy and setting clear boundaries. Of course, this has also worked well in helping her avoid intimacy and engage in too much inner dialog about her life and where she’s going. But then she receives the diagnosis we all fear: she has cancer, and her life will never be the same again. This doesn’t sound much like an upbeat, comic look at Gail’s life and times – and yet this canny author manages to turn her fears and black thoughts into a very funny glimpse at just how ridiculous life can sometimes turn out.
Gail Thomas – Photo by David Haverty
When disaster strikes, Gail’s life is pretty much on track for Gail. She has a job she likes, a boyfriend who seems to like her, and a family who are supportive and there for her. In other words, she has structured life on her own terms and feels quite comfortable and happy. But that will soon change as she reinvents herself as a mini-M.D. with a Google license and faces the possibility of her own mortality. If you’re wondering how the FDA and psilocybin enter into the picture, you’ll have to visit Gail at the upstairs Henry Murray Stage to find out for yourself.
PATIENT 13 Poster – Photo by David Haverty
Director Dan Oliverio helms the solo show with compassion and an eye to the humor inherent in most situations in life. Clearly, he “gets it” and is the perfect person to help the audience do the same. Gail Thomas does a fantastic job of telling her poignant story, all the while poking fun at her own actions and reactions. With lights and sound by Rachel Ann Manheimer and graphic design by Michelle Hanzelova-Bierbauer, PATIENT 13 entertains while asking thought-provoking questions and memories which will linger long after the show is over.
PATIENT 13 runs through September 1, 2024, with performances at 8 p.m. on Fridays, at 3 p.m. on Saturdays, and at 1 p.m. on Sundays. The Rogue Machine performs at the Matrix Theatre, 7657 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90046. Tickets are $45 (students $25, seniors $35). For information and reservations, call 855-585-5185 or go online.
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