This is such a well-defined set of characters placed into a unique, ever so slightly heightened (until the end when it becomes magnificently heightened!) setup. Patrick excels at exploring themes of masculinity, radicalization, belonging, and socio-cultural and socio-political group dynamics from angles I never would've thought of myself. The theatricality of working out is used to good effect here, as are all the clever metaphors and images connecting the gym, church/worship, and society. I'd love to see this performed!

Patrick has such a clear eye for depicting the brutal sadness behind toxic masculinity (or is it workout culture?), as this offbeat group of not-friends uses every tool in their combination church/gym to distract from the disasters that are their personal lives. This play is hilarious, poignant, and downright scary as an exploration of people seeking control in a world that looks ever more aimless and lonely.

Is it every really possible to do something separate from the rest of your life? Where does caring about your fellow man begin and end? And it it possible that everlasting life be achieved through.... fitness goals? These are all questions asked by Patrick Vermillion's wild and wonderful play about a weightlifting cult for Jesus. Loosely based on true historical events, Vermillion's play is nevertheless incredibly modern and relevant to anyone who has ever set foot in a gym or questioned their own mortality. So, all of us.