In the world of contemporary theatre, few voices stand as boldly and uniquely as that of E.M. Lewis. Known for her poignant storytelling, profound insights into the human condition, and deep commitment to the craft, Lewis has been a transformative figure in modern American theatre. As her latest work, How the Light Gets In, graces the stage at South Camden Theatre Company, we took the opportunity to reconnect with the playwright to reflect on her creative journey, recent life updates, and what inspired this deeply moving new play.
From “Apple Season” to How the Light Gets In – A Journey of Growth
Several years ago, I had the privilege of speaking with E.M. Lewis when her play Apple Season was selected as part of the National New Play Network’s (NNPN) prestigious Rolling World Premiere program. The Rolling World Premiere supports the development of new works by establishing partnerships between playwrights and three different NNPN Member Theaters, which together produce distinct versions of an unproduced play. For Lewis, Apple Season was a personal milestone—a play about love, loss, and the complexities of family, with a message that resonated deeply with audiences across the country. This recognition catapulted her into the spotlight of the theatre world, solidifying her reputation as a leading voice in contemporary playwriting.
Today, as How the Light Gets In arrives at South Camden Theatre Company, we find a playwright whose creative voice has continued to evolve, enriched by life experiences, new inspirations, and an ever-deepening understanding of human nature. The new play, much like Apple Season, is a poignant exploration of complex emotional landscapes, but it also carries with it a sense of urgency and reflection on the personal and collective challenges we face today.
A Shift in Personal Life and Creative Focus
In our latest conversation, Lewis shared some exciting updates in both her personal life and her career. Over the past few years, she’s been grappling with significant shifts—both in her personal journey and her approach to writing. These life changes have undoubtedly shaped the themes and characters of How the Light Gets In, a play that addresses topics of healing, hope, and redemption, framed by the light that sometimes flickers through even the darkest of times.
The title itself, How the Light Gets In, is borrowed from a lyric by Leonard Cohen. It is a reminder that while we may experience pain, loss, and trauma, there is always the possibility for healing and light to seep through. This central theme permeates the play, weaving together characters who are struggling to find a way forward after facing their own moments of darkness.
In our chat, Lewis noted that the creative process for How the Light Gets In was deeply influenced by her own experiences of loss and renewal. “I’ve gone through a lot of changes in my life,” Lewis said, “and those changes made me want to explore themes of resilience—how we break and how we heal.” This sense of personal evolution is evident in the layered characters and intricate emotional journeys of the play’s protagonists. The narrative is an exploration of both inner turmoil and the hope that comes from rediscovery.
A Play About People, Their Struggles, and Their Triumphs
In true E.M. Lewis fashion, How the Light Gets In doesn’t shy away from the darker side of life but instead embraces it with a sense of compassion and understanding. The play centers on a small community as it navigates personal and collective upheavals. The characters grapple with everything from broken relationships and the weight of personal secrets to the daunting task of rebuilding lives in the aftermath of trauma.
Yet, the play’s true brilliance lies in its ability to find light within these struggles. “It’s about the human ability to endure,” Lewis explained. “It’s about those moments where people think they’ve reached the end, but they find a way to go on. And that’s something we all need to be reminded of, especially in these challenging times.”
For audiences attending the production at South Camden Theatre Company, How the Light Gets In promises to be a deeply emotional and cathartic experience. The theatre’s intimate setting will allow the actors to bring Lewis’s evocative script to life, drawing the audience into the hearts and minds of the characters. It’s the kind of play that doesn’t just entertain but challenges and inspires.
A New Chapter in E.M. Lewis’s Career
As for what’s next for Lewis, she remains as passionate about theatre as ever. She continues to explore new creative territory and is excited about upcoming projects. She’s been spending time mentoring young playwrights, teaching, and continuing to evolve as an artist. Her commitment to nurturing the next generation of voices is a testament to her dedication not only to her craft but to the future of American theatre as a whole.
“What’s most exciting is that theatre continues to evolve,” she reflected. “There are so many voices that we need to hear, and I’m thrilled to be a part of that movement. As artists, we are constantly adapting, reflecting on the world around us, and finding new ways to tell stories.”
E.M. Lewis and the South Camden Theatre Company Experience
South Camden Theatre Company’s staging of How the Light Gets In represents a new milestone in the play’s journey, bringing it to an audience that appreciates the power of intimate, thought-provoking theatre. The theatre has long been a champion of new work, and its commitment to telling stories that resonate with the real world makes it the perfect home for this production. The combination of Lewis’s poignant writing and South Camden’s dynamic production values is sure to create an unforgettable theatrical experience.
For those who are familiar with Lewis’s earlier works, How the Light Gets In will feel like a continuation of her commitment to exploring the human heart in all its complexity. And for those encountering her work for the first time, it’s an introduction to a playwright whose ability to weave together intricate emotional landscapes is second to none.
Conclusion: Why You Should Experience How the Light Gets In
If you’re a theatre lover or simply someone searching for a story that resonates with the struggles, joys, and enduring resilience of the human spirit, don’t miss How the Light Gets In at South Camden Theatre Company. This play not only marks a new chapter in E.M. Lewis’s career but also invites the audience to reflect on their own journey of growth, healing, and discovery.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of her work or a newcomer to her theatre, this production promises to be an emotional and transformative experience—one that will linger long after the final curtain falls.
Plan Your Visit to South Camden Theatre Company
How the Light Gets In is now playing at South Camden Theatre Company. For tickets, showtimes, and more information, visit South Camden Theatre Company’s Website. Don’t miss your chance to experience the power of live theatre at its most intimate and impactful.