JP Patches and “Patches Pals” take over the Admiral Theater

Whole lotta love at the Admiral Theater this morning as local TV legend JP Patches put on a show for loyal fans of all ages, known as “Patches Pals.” That’s a clip of JP signing autographs and meeting fans in the lobby afterward – more video ahead:

Inside the theater, JP — who recently celebrated his 80th birthday — arrived to plenty of applause:

(Forgive us the washed-out video from inside the auditorium – very low light in the Admiral.) For his “performance,” which included guest magicians, JP told jokes and interacted with kids – including little ones he invited up to lead the Pledge of Allegiance:

Sorry, no Gertrude — JP joked that she/he was “in the trunk.” Back in the lobby afterward, JP Patches merchandise was available too.

Part of today’s proceeds go to the JP Patches Statue Fund (read more about it on his website), which also is raising money for Children’s Hospital. JP himself – aka Chris Wedes – is fighting health challenges himself (undergoing treatment for a bloodborne cancer), but still in good spirits and a crowd favorite. How’d he wind up doing a show at the Admiral, you’re wondering? We asked Admiral proprietor Steve Garrett, who said simply, “I called up and asked!”

8 Replies to "JP Patches and "Patches Pals" take over the Admiral Theater"

  • Rhonda Porter May 17, 2008 (8:55 pm)

    I love JP…I should have been there. He ALMOST married us on April Fools except our parents were not too happy about the “clown” and April Fools aspect of our wedding (and the ceremony would not be official). I was surprised by my husband for my 40th bday when JP showed up. He’s the best.

    Everyone should buy a brick before Monday.

  • Mags May 18, 2008 (7:23 am)

    Tomorrow is the last day to buy a brick on line. I already bought mine (what a great gift and tax deductible too!)..I think we were much more Rags Rascals in my family. All the proceeds after the cost of the statue go to Children’s hospital. This was a brilliant idea.

  • Proud Father May 18, 2008 (8:52 am)

    That’s my daughter, in the center holding the flag :)

  • JimmyG May 18, 2008 (4:29 pm)

    JP seems to be doing great, in spite of his health concerns. He put on a great show yesterday, getting young and old involved.

  • Admiral Janeway May 18, 2008 (7:29 pm)

    How many were in attendance?

  • Seth Bullock May 19, 2008 (12:00 pm)

    J.P. is the 2nd nicest man in the world!

  • Olivia K May 27, 2008 (10:01 pm)

    I loved seeing you in those clips having a good time with the people in the lobby and while on stage. You never lose your charm and humor.

    Keep getting better and hope to see you at the statue unveiling in August.

    God Bless!

  • daphne everett July 28, 2008 (12:20 am)

    jp patches we will miss you and i watch your your show and my mom and me and my mom are pathchs pal and i have a doll looks like you and im your bigess fan and i love your show and i saw you on tv on the news and take care jp patches

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