Stage Too presents Lee Blessing's "Patient A" July 15, 16, 22 and 23

CONTACT:  Nancy Nanney, chair of the Humanities Division, 304-424-8361.
 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stage Too will present Lee Blessing's drama "Patient A" on July 15, 16, 22 and 23 in the college theatre at West Virginia University at Parkersburg.

Curtain time is 8 p.m. for all four presentations.  Stage Too is a cooperative partnership between the Actors Guild of Parkersburg and WVU of Parkersburg.   This marks the partnership's first theatrical production.

Under the direction of Charlie Matthews, "Patient A" is an exploration of the experience of Kimberly Bergalis, played by Heather Sammons, whose case marked the first known instance of HIV transmission from a health-care worker to a patient. Issues of testing, discrimination and personal responsibility are examined against the larger backdrop of the AIDS epidemic in America.

Commissioned by the Bergalis family to explore Kimberly's case of contracting the AIDS virus, the character of the playwright, played by Dave Prather, becomes part of the story as an essential observer. Kim's encounters with Lee reflect their relationship and "character" in the play. A third character, Matthew, played by Bill Knotts, represents a composite of the thousands of gay men who have suffered in the AIDS epidemic. As the play recounts Kim's case and highlights the media and political circus surrounding it, the audience will see all three characters struggle with the debate, and their innermost feelings about themselves and each other.
         
While the play is presentational in form, it is also deeply personal - delving into political, spiritual, physical, mental, and sociological issues. No aspect of the AIDS crisis is left untouched. Though the play has moments that some may find uncomfortable, it is poignant and thought provoking, and will certainly be a valuable experience to all who attend, Matthews noted.

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