By The People’s Paper MS Staff
As development continues on the stage adaptation of Love Will Cost You Everything, author John Lockett said the transition from book to theater has already revealed new challenges and opportunities.
“One of the things that has surprised me is how differently a story begins to breathe when it’s being prepared for the stage,” Lockett said.
He explained that writing and live performance require different approaches.
“When you write a book, so much lives in the internal world,” he said. “But in live theater, everything has to be expressed outwardly.”
That shift affects everything from dialogue to pacing.
“What may take a few pages to unfold in a book has to be captured in a moment on stage,” Lockett said.
The story itself draws from real life, but Lockett emphasized that no character represents a specific individual.
“There are elements of the story that are inspired by real experiences,” he said. “But I want to be very clear, this is not anyone’s specific story.”
Instead, he said the characters are built from multiple influences.
“They’re composites shaped from a combination of different experiences, conversations, and observations over time,” Lockett said.
He said that approach allows the story to remain honest while protecting people’s privacy.
“My goal was never to expose people, but to reflect the truth,” he said.
As the stage version takes shape, Lockett said the team is focusing on the most impactful moments from the book.
“We’ve been intentional about identifying the moments that carry the most emotional weight,” he said. “The conversations, the conflicts, and the decisions that shape the story.”
Other moments will remain more subtle.
“Sometimes it’s more powerful when everything isn’t fully shown,” Lockett said.
The production will also highlight key elements of Mississippi culture, particularly family and faith.
“Family dynamics were a major focus for me, because in Mississippi, family is at the center of everything,” he said.
Music will also play a role in shaping the experience.
“Soulful gospel music reflects the heart of our community, faith, struggle, and resilience,” Lockett said. “Sometimes the music says what the characters can’t.”
Lockett said he hopes to premiere the play in or near Simpson County, though details are still being finalized.
Beyond the location, he said his focus is on the audience’s response.
“My prayer is that people don’t just leave entertained. They leave changed,” he said.
He hopes the story encourages reflection and conversation.
“I want them to recognize the moments where they’ve loved, where they’ve been hurt, and where they may still need healing,” Lockett said.
The project also carries personal meaning for him and his family.
“I wrote this book to leave something behind for my children,” he said. “Something that gives voice to the pain they saw me live through.”
He said the message of the story ultimately centers on hope.
“No matter what it has cost them, no matter what they’ve gone through, restoration is still possible,” Lockett said.
For other Mississippi writers, he offered simple advice.
“Honor the story you’ve been given,” he said. “There’s power in authenticity.”
