Review of Alumni's Play- When Kingdom Comes by Niveah Glover

Written by: Luigi Avila

Edited by: Harper Bell-Kimbro

(Photo credit to Helena Dawson)

Pictured above is Lila Hartley, Niveah Glover, and Luigi Avila

Douglas Anderson alum Niveah Glover graduated as a creative writing major in 2024, and is currently studying playwriting at Howard University. Niveah is an ambitious artist; she has written many plays, one of which was titled Callas. She produced and directed this play during her senior year of high school. Currently, she is moving into different projects, such as her newest play, When Kingdom Comes, which was recently produced at JAMS. 

When Kingdom Comes 

Her most recent play is about is about a family whose has father just died. Now, the family must come together to unveil his will. Zeke King, the protagonist, tells the audience the story by breaking the fourth wall and becoming an active narrator through the story. As the story and characters unfold, information is revealed through his perspective and ideology. “Control the story and you control the narrative.” This line is repeated throughout the play, showing his need for control and his perspective of the current events. 

The Narrator 

As Zeke or “Z” tells the story, we the audience are left with lingering with questions, regarding his father, such as why he cares so much for control and why does he pin some people against each other?  Later during the second act of the play, it is revealed masterfully to why Z did what he did. 

Audience Appeal 

Niveah Glover asked for suggestions before the play began. Thursday night, the audience was asked to provide comments on Niveah’s play. Lila Hartley, 12^th grade creative writing student, attended the Thursday showing, sharing her comments regarding the show, stating, “I saw When Kingdom Comes by Niveah Glover on Thursday August 20th. Niveah expertly crafted a nuanced story on a complex family with a complex structure. Other than the beautiful set, one visual element that I loved was the way the painting of Cornell above the fireplace was highlighted throughout.  It was the first night, so of course that comes with its hiccups, but the acting and writing were all incredible. Niveah’s poetic and playwright voice is clear and distinct as ever.” 

Overall, When Kingdom Comes, is a masterfully written story by Niveah Glover. Showing the hardships of a family dynamic and why do character interact the way they chose to do so. Giving us sympathy to the characters from their liveliness and awing feeling for our protagonist.