I am Daniel and saw “The Spy Who Went into Rehab”. An original comedy penned by Gregg Ostrin on stage at the Pacific Resident Theatre. Directed by Cindy Fujikawa. The story follows Simon Cross, an international spy, who finds himself in rehab.
Simon finds himself having to deal with the issues that we might consider part of the spy job: alcoholism, sex addiction, and gambling. Along with anger issues, toxic masculinity, and the need to be in control.
The Pacific Resident Theatre is a 501(c)3 non-profit with three spaces. 705 ½ is a 40-seat space that creates an intimate setting, allowing the audience to feel they are part of New Horizons, the fictional rehabilitation center.
Director Fujikawa set the tone for the story from the first scene; we knew who Simon Cross was and where he was, and we were invested in his recovery. We were introduced to his housemates; if you have been to a rehab center, you’ll recognize them. The cast is small, which allows us to connect to each one and gives the actors the space to evolve their characters. Satair Pourvasei, as Simon Cross, leads the group. The combination of talent and a smooth accent transforms Simon from a man of mystery to a friend we want to cheer for.
The cast includes Jill Renner as Stella, the therapist; Alondra Andrade as Pixie, a member of the nonbinary community; and Rachel Townsend as the strong female energy presence. The recovery chip goes to Stuart W. Howard, who plays Gary, the loveable gay resident, and Lazarus Rex, Simon’s archenemy.
Those who have been to rehab will recognize the verbiage. Mr. Ostrin cleverly placed enough references to bring back memories and introduce the world to those who have not. Because of the cast’s shared chemistry, the conversations felt authentic and relatable.
The well-balanced comedic and heartfelt moments make the 80-minute production move along. This allows us to see Simon Cross’s growth and connection to his housemates and himself. This self-discovery turned the character from untouchable to relatable.
As someone who went to rehab, I found myself remembering those housemates, conversations, and situations. Grab your Big Book, head to a meeting at Pacific Resident Theatre, and enjoy an evening with the residents of New Horizons Rehab Center.
The Spy Who Went into Rehab runs through July 7th. It has 8:00 p.m. shows on Fridays and Saturdays and 3:00 p.m. showings on Sundays. Located at 703 Venice Blvd, Venice, CA 90291. Free, limited parking in the back of the theatre and street parking.
Check out the additional reviews:
- https://www.broadwayworld.com/los-angeles/article/Review-THE-SPY-WHO-WENT-INTO-REHAB-at-Pacific-Resident-Theatre
- https://losangeles.splashmags.com/index.php/2024/06/the-spy-who-went-into-rehab-review-times-change/
- https://hollywoodtimes.net/the-spy-who-went-into-rehab-my-name-is-bond-james-bond-and-im-an-alcoholic/
SOBER ENTERTAINMENT: Embracing Vulnerability and Breaking the Chains of Toxic Masculinity: A Journey of Self-Discovery with Gregg Ostrin by Sober Curator Contributor Megan Swan
SOBER ENTERTAINMENT: A Sobering Look: The Spy Who Went Into Rehab by Gregg Ostrin
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