Delia Ephron and Left on Tenth: A Broadway Play Set in the Heart of the Village

Delia Ephron, the celebrated writer and longtime Greenwich Village resident known for her poignant and humorous storytelling, is now bringing her unique voice to the Broadway stage with Left on Tenth, a play that draws from her own life and her deep connection to Greenwich Village. Ephron, who is beloved for her novels, essays, and screenplays (including You’ve Got Mail), has crafted a play that blends the wit of her writing with the emotional depth of her personal journey.

Left on Tenth is a reference to the Greenwich Village Street (10th Street) where Ephron has spent much of her life. The Village has long been a hub for artists, writers, and dreamers, and Ephron’s work reflects that spirit of reinvention and self-discovery. Much like her memoir of the same name, the stage version of Left on Tenth delves into themes of loss, love, and the unexpected twists of fate.

At the center of the play is Ephron’s own journey — her experience of facing the death of her beloved husband, finding a second chance at love, and confronting a life-threatening illness. It’s a deeply personal story, yet one that resonates universally, as Ephron explores the complexities of life in the face of hardship. The play, which premiered to critical acclaim, showcases her trademark humor, vulnerability, and keen observations of human relationships.

Set against the backdrop of Greenwich Village, Left on Tenth captures the essence of our iconic neighborhood. For Ephron, the Village has always been more than just a place to live — it’s where her personal and creative life intersect. The streets, the shops, the vibrant energy of the community are all woven into the fabric of the play.

However, while the play draws on Ephron’s personal experiences, it is ultimately about the power of resilience and reinvention. Even in the midst of grief and uncertainty, the characters in Left on Tenth find the possibility of joy and new beginnings. The message is clear: life may not always go according to plan, but it’s never too late to begin again.

Delia Ephron’s foray into Broadway is an exciting new chapter in her already remarkable career. With Left on Tenth she proves that no matter the medium —whether it’s memoir, screenwriting, or theater — her voice continues to captivate and inspire. In the Village, where the stories of generations past and present swirl around every corner, Ephron’s own story unfolds profoundly at this moment in our history.