Staged Reading of the 2025 Oregon Book Award-Nominated Play, Strange Birds by E. M. Lewis

Fishtrap is proud to present a special staged reading of Strange Birds, the 2025 Oregon Book Award-nominated play by acclaimed playwright E. M. Lewis. This one-night-only event will take place on Thursday, June 19 at 7:00 PM and features a talented cast under the direction of Melory Mirashrafi.

Set against the backdrop of Oregon’s rugged Wallowa Mountains, Strange Birds is a fierce and funny psychological thriller about women, wolves, and secrets that refuse to stay buried. When a forest ranger and her trainee discover blood in the snow outside a remote mountain cabin, they must uncover the truth before an impending snowstorm seals their fate. As tensions rise and mysteries unravel, the play explores the resilience of women and the institutions that fail to protect them.

A Note from the Playwright: “I’m delighted to bring Strange Birds to the community that helped inspire it,” says E. M. Lewis. “During my time in Wallowa County with Fishtrap, I was struck by the region’s wild beauty and isolation—elements that found their way into this story. This play is about strong, resourceful women confronting danger and the question of what we owe to failing institutions. It’s an honor to return to this special place and share this work with you.”

This event is made possible with support from CreativeWest, the Roundhouse Foundation, and the Oregon Arts Commission.