The 2024–25 season for South Philadelphia-based theatre company Theatre Exile concludes with the East Coast premiere of a wildly funny and thought-provoking new play by award-winning playwright, television writer, and bestselling author R. Eric Thomas.
In 2021, Theatre Exile commissioned Thomas’ play ‘The Ever Present’, igniting a creative partnership that continues to grow. The latest chapter in Thomas’ long relationship with Theatre Exile, ‘Glitter in the Glass’, originally titled ‘Nightbird’, was workshopped through Exile’s Studio X-hibition series, which supports new work through public readings.
The story follows a mid-career Black artist named Chelle, played by Jennifer Nikki Kidwell, who struggles with the weight of expectation after securing the opportunity to replace a Confederate monument after its removal by the city of Baltimore. Directed by Ontaria Kim Wilson, ‘Glitter in the Glass’ takes a fearless and insightful look at history, legacy, pressure, and the connective web in between.
Joining Kidwell on stage is returning Exile actor Kishia Nixon and Exile newcomer Danny Wilfred. This well-rounded and formidable cast brings the depth, wit, and electricity necessary to properly display Thomas’ visionary world.
“This play is a cosmic mirror,” said Deborah Block, Producing Artistic Director of Theatre Exile. “Through Chelle’s journey, R. Eric Thomas invites us to reflect on what it means to create art under pressure, to confront the ghosts of history, and to imagine new futures. It’s hilarious, searing, and deeply theatrical — a perfect conclusion to a season that’s asked us all to reconsider how we see the world, and most importantly, how art helps us see it.”
Previews for ‘Glitter in the Glass’ begin Thursday, May 29, and the show will officially open on June 5. By popular demand, this production has already been extended through June 22. To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit theatreexile.org.
