Once I Was a Kingdom by Gemma Cooper-Novack

In this 15-minute play, a powerful white American female politician currently involved in a grueling campaign brings in a female Syrian Arab psychic to read her past lives in exchange for getting the psychic's children out of Syria. The psychic herself is the reincarnation of the famous second-century queen and military mastermind Zenobia of Palmyra.
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Once I Was a Kingdom

Recommended by

  • Nick Malakhow:
    30 Aug. 2020
    “ An atmospheric, powerful piece that packs a lot into a short play. The exploration of power, politics, gender, and race and nationality is complex, and Cooper-Novack manages to examine the historical legacy of these themes and issues. The palpable tension is masterfully-executed and hinges on nuanced and subtle shifts rather than contrived theatrics. Well done! ”
  • Steven G. Martin:
    15 Dec. 2019
    “ Cooper-Novack's short drama is a kaleidoscope: It's a constantly shifting portrait of the concepts of power and powerlessness, of being "important" and being "everyday," all through the lenses of contemporary times and ancient history. ”
  • Lainie Vansant:
    7 Aug. 2019
    “ This is a beautifully constructed piece - the characters are fascinating, and the reader/audience gets little hints about what's going on and why all the way up to the last page. It has great roles for two mature women, and those roles are powerful and commanding. "Once I Was a Kingdom" is timely and creative - check it out! ”
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Character Information

  • Zeynab
    60s,
    Arab
    ,
    Female
    A powerful, commanding presence. The reincarnation of second-century queen and military leader Zenobia of Palmyra. Extremely down-to-earth, particularly for a practicing psychic, and very cautious given her current situation.
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      50s, 60s, 70s+
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      Middle Eastern, North African, or Arab American
    • Gender: 
      Female
  • Sally
    60s,
    White
    ,
    Female
    An American presidential candidate. Sharp, personable, hawkish. Means what she says, even when she's oblivious.
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      50s, 60s, 70s+
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      White
    • Gender: 
      Female

Development History

  • Reading
    ,
    Rep Stage
    ,
    2020

Awards

Selection
,
Women+ In Theatre Conference Award
,
Rep Stage
,
2020