A new immersive experience, "The Light We Leave Behind," has taken up residence in the Arts District, promising an evening centered on sound, light, and water. Located in a soundstage at East End Studios, right beneath the arches of the Sixth Street Viaduct, the production by L.A.-based artist Emmit Fenn aims to shake up the typical concert format by engaging attendees across a multi-stage journey.
Fenn, a composer and producer known for his work with artists like Billie Eilish and companies such as Apple and Netflix, created the experience to be an intimate, otherworldly escape. Guests are encouraged to disconnect from their phones, a deliberate choice to foster presence and engagement with the environment.
The experience begins in the Snow Lounge, a cavernous, dimly lit room. At its center stands a 30-foot illuminated tree, dusted with real-time snow, creating a tranquil atmosphere. A bar, staffed by Tea at Shiloh—an Arts District late-night teahouse—serves a selection of three teas, providing warmth in the cool space. Arriving at the designated entry time allows for a full half-hour to relax and take in the quiet before the main event.
From the Snow Lounge, attendees are guided through near-total darkness to the Water Room. Here, plush beds are arranged around a striking display: approximately 70 glowing lightbulbs atop concrete pillars, emerging from shallow water that covers nearly the entire floor. While the impulse to capture the scene on a phone is strong, photography and video are not permitted, encouraging attendees to simply be in the moment. Navigating to the seats involves walking across large stones that rise out of the water, with staff carefully guiding the way using flashlights. Emmit Fenn noted that during earlier iterations, there were instances of people stepping into the water or placing items in it, but he stated that “these days it rarely ever happens” thanks to adjustments.
The performance itself features four musicians positioned amidst the lightbulbs and water. The lighting system is intricately connected to the musical score, allowing lights to sync directly with the sound. A single piano note might trigger a gentle flash from one bulb, while musical swells illuminate the entire water surface. The program draws from classical and contemporary styles, featuring piano, violin, and saxophone, with many pieces specifically composed by Fenn to interact with the unique environment. A notable moment involves all lightbulbs switching to blue as rainfall cascades around the musicians, creating the sensation of being cozy indoors during a rainstorm.
After about an hour of music, it is revealed that Emmit Fenn himself has been the pianist playing in the dark throughout the performance. He then shares insights into the show’s inspiration and thanks the attendees. The journey concludes in the Gallery, where guests can delve deeper into the creative process behind the project and purchase minimalist merchandise. Fenn emphasizes his vision for the production, stating that he wants to show people that “music can be presented in a completely different way” where every detail, from the welcoming to the pre- and post-show experience, is part of the overall performance.
"The Light We Leave Behind" runs Thursdays through Saturdays until October 11, with multiple performances each evening starting as early as 4 pm and the last show at 10 pm. Tickets are priced at $145 for reclined seating and access to the Snow Lounge with complimentary tea. A patron ticket, at $250, includes a curated gift bag and VIP parking. Both options promise an evening that stands apart from typical Southern California outings.
