This September, audiences in Philadelphia will have the unique opportunity to experience a deeply personal and inspiring performance by Katie Hyde Lewars, a New Jersey native, actor, and filmmaker. As part of the Philly Fringe Festival, Lewars will be performing her one-woman show, My Mind is Made Up, at the Icebox Project Space on September 27 and 28, 2025. This heartfelt production delves into the challenges of balancing career ambitions with the overwhelming responsibilities of parenthood, offering a candid and relatable narrative for those juggling family life with personal aspirations.
A Personal Narrative of Parenthood and Ambition
In My Mind is Made Up, Lewars uses her own life story to explore the theme of “overcoming the paralysis of parenthood.” The show is a reflection on the complexities of being a working parent in the creative industry. Lewars shares her journey of reconciling her professional ambitions as an actor and filmmaker with the demands of raising a family. With humor and vulnerability, she navigates the struggles that many parents face: the feeling of being torn between nurturing a family and pursuing personal passions.
The performance is a deeply intimate look at the emotional and physical toll parenthood can take on a person’s dreams and career goals. Lewars speaks directly to the audience, offering insights into how she has managed to maintain her career in the arts while balancing the joys and challenges of family life. Through this personal narrative, she hopes to inspire others who may be facing similar struggles, showing that it is possible to find a path that honors both personal and professional goals.
Meditation as a Tool for Resilience
One of the central themes of Lewars’ performance is the role of meditation in her life. She discusses how this practice has been crucial in helping her navigate the pressures of her dual roles as both a mother and a professional. In her show, Lewars reflects on how meditation provided her with the emotional resilience needed to face her personal challenges. It became a tool for self-reflection and mental clarity, helping her manage stress, increase patience, and maintain a sense of balance.
Meditation is not only an essential part of Lewars’ daily routine but also serves as a powerful metaphor in her performance. It underscores the importance of finding stillness amidst chaos and learning to center oneself when everything around feels overwhelming. This theme of mindfulness resonates deeply with many who struggle to balance multiple responsibilities in their own lives.
A Haddonfield Native Takes the Stage
Katie Hyde Lewars’ New Jersey roots are integral to her identity as an artist. A graduate of Haddonfield Memorial High School (HMHS), Lewars has always had a strong connection to her home state. While she has traveled and performed across the country, her New Jersey upbringing plays a significant role in her creative work. Her ability to connect with local audiences is enhanced by her understanding of the challenges faced by working professionals in New Jersey—a state known for its vibrant arts community yet high cost of living and fast-paced lifestyle.
As a performer and producer, Lewars has an extensive background in the film and television industry. She is the founder of Indie City Films, a production company dedicated to creating independent projects that explore complex human experiences. Lewars has worked on numerous projects that range from documentaries to narrative films, giving her a wealth of experience in storytelling. My Mind is Made Up is a continuation of her passion for creating meaningful content that resonates with real-life experiences.
Performance Details and Local Connection
The show will be performed at the Icebox Project Space, an intimate venue in Philadelphia known for showcasing innovative and thought-provoking work. The two-night event on September 27 and 28, 2025, is expected to draw a diverse audience of theatergoers, creatives, and those interested in exploring the intersection of parenthood, ambition, and personal growth.
Katie Hyde Lewars’ connection to New Jersey and her dedication to the arts make her a standout talent in the theater world. Her one-woman show is an excellent example of how personal experiences can be transformed into powerful narratives that speak to broader universal themes.
For those in New Jersey and surrounding areas looking to experience a thought-provoking evening of theater, My Mind is Made Up is an event you won’t want to miss. And for more on arts and culture throughout New Jersey, explore the rich variety of performances and exhibitions happening across the state on Explore New Jersey’s theatre section here.
Lewars’ performance invites us to reflect on the many ways we can juggle our professional and personal lives, finding balance, and embracing resilience along the way. Don’t miss this powerful, intimate show that speaks to the heart of modern parenthood and the pursuit of dreams.
