Performances:
Feb 11th – Feb 13th 7:30PM (Previews)
Feb 20th and 27th 11:00AM (Matinees)
Thursdays 7:30PM
Fridays 7:30PM
Saturdays 2:30PM and 7:30PM
Sundays 2:30PM
Synopsis:
Jaja’s African Hair Braiding invites you to step into a vibrant hair salon in Harlem, where a lively community of West African immigrant hair braiders weaves together humor and heart in a celebration of artistry and resilience. Amidst the laughter and playful shop talk, a diverse group of women share dreams, love stories, and hidden secrets, all while creating stunning braided masterpieces. On a sweltering summer day, the lighthearted banter reveals deeper reflections on the challenges of feeling like outsiders in their own neighborhood, sparking a powerful exploration of identity and belonging. Join us for this dazzling regional premiere that masterfully balances comedy with poignant themes, highlighting the magic of Black salon culture and the connections that unite us all.
Director:
Ibi Owolabi is the current Drama League Stage Directing Fellow, with a residency at Manhattan Theatre Club that led to her recent Broadway debut on Cost of Living. Her work has been seen at 7 Stages, Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre, Alliance Theatre, Theatre Emory, The Weird Sisters Theatre Project, and the DC Black Theatre Festival. Ibi is a graduate of Georgia Southern University, the Actors Express directing internship, and the Kenny Leon fellowship. Ibi directed several Zoom productions, including Well-Intentioned White People, Good Bad People, White-Ish, Stew, and Faith. Ibi’s recent in person productions include a socially distanced You on the Moors Now at USC, The Bluest Eye at Synchronicity Theatre, Intimate Apparel at Actor’s Express, and Good Bad People at True Colors Theatre. She is also a producer for Weird SIster’s Theatre Project, a mixed media production company by women, for everyone.
