SECOND Wind

Stepping into Leona’s Shoes — My Exit Laughing Experience

I wanted to take a moment to reflect on one of the most enjoyable experiences I’ve had on stage — playing the role of Leona in Exit Laughing. From the very first rehearsal, I knew this character was going to be a wild ride, and I absolutely loved every minute of bringing her to life.

Leona is bold, brash, and unapologetically herself — a woman with a sharp wit and a huge heart hidden beneath all that sass. Getting to embody her was both challenging and liberating. She says the things many of us might think but never dare to say out loud, and playing her gave me the freedom to step out of my own skin and into hers, fully embracing her quirks, her humor, and even her vulnerabilities.

One of the best parts of Exit Laughing — besides the laughter (and there was plenty of that!) — was the bond that formed between us as castmates. The story is about friendship, loss, and finding joy again, and as we shared that journey on stage, we were also building real friendships offstage. The chemistry and connection we had made our performances feel authentic, and I think the audience could feel that too.

What I loved most about Leona was her ability to find humor in the darkest of moments. She reminded me, and hopefully the audience, that even when life throws its hardest punches, laughter can be a lifeline. There were moments during rehearsals when we’d be doubled over with laughter ourselves — and those moments are what I’ll treasure most.

Playing Leona reminded me why I love acting — the chance to step into someone else’s world, to feel all the emotions, and to share that with others in a way that makes them laugh, cry, and reflect. If you ever get the chance to be part of Exit Laughing — whether as an actor or an audience member — I highly recommend it. And if you get to play Leona? Buckle up. You’re in for a blast.