Our interview with On the Exhale actor, Suli Holum

Q.     The themes of On the Exhale are challenging. Why was it important for you to be a part of this production?

A. I’m honored to be entrusted with this material. Themes of grief and loss, the experience of navigating the threat of violence, but also the deep love of a parent for their child, and the capacity to experience great tragedy and still find a path forward- all of these resonate with me personally and I think this piece does a terrific job of honoring them.

Q.  Is there anything you are doing to take care of yourself during this process?

A. I find it very helpful when working on difficult material to remember my commitment to storytelling as an agent of change and of healing.

Q.     You’ve been in rehearsal for a couple weeks now.  Have you found any part of the process surprising?

A. I’ve been very excited to dig in to the writing and get to know my character. She is incredibly complex and she has a wonderfully smart and often surprising sense of humor.

Q.     Has your role as a mother in your real life impacted your approach to your performance?

A. As an actor you bring your own perspective and life experience to bear on every role you play. Being a mother myself certainly brings me closer to my character.  

Q.     Is there anything unique you think Matt is bringing to the rehearsal process?

A. Matt and I share a depth of experience in performing and directing solo work. He knows what it is to perform a solo show and I trust his guidance in helping me craft this one. I’m also extremely grateful for the compassion he brings to the process.  This kind of play is a huge challenge, and I’m in good hands!