Jaja's African Hair Braiding at Ensemble Theatre Event
Story by Pulitzer Prise Nominated Jocelyn Bioh
June 12, 2025 7:30PM
ENSEMBLE THEATRE
About the Show
Tressed to impress!
Welcome to Jaja’s bustling hair braiding salon nestled in the pulsating heart of Harlem, where a lively community of West African immigrant hair braiders weaves together humor and heart. 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, and confronting what it means to be an outsider on the edge of the place they call home. Written by award-winning and Tony-nominated Ghanaian American playwright Jocelyn Bioh (School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play), this laugh-out-loud comedic gem is a riotously funny yet deeply resonant play that celebrates the indomitable spirit and interconnectedness that define us all.
Nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Play
Nominated for three Drama Desk Awards, including Outstanding Play
2024 New York Times Critic’s Pick
Run time: ~1 hr, 30 min with no intermission
This show is for you if . . .
- You dig shows with a large ensemble of relatable characters.
- You’re drawn to plays that deftly blend humor and drama in equal measure.
- You enjoy honest and candid stories about Black, femme, and immigrant experiences.
- You’re a fan of plays that focus on themes of identity, family, and community.
- You liked ETC’s productions of Sweat, Who All Over There?, and Your Negro Tour Guide.
- You like book and/or film titles such as Americanah, Transcendent Kingdom, On Beauty, The Joy Luck Club, Girls Trip, and Spike Lee’s School Daze.
Content Advisory
Jaja’s stylists and clients are no strangers to gossip and gab, sometimes using mild adult language and sexual references. In these complex female friendships, they feel empowered to discuss racism, divorce, domestic violence, and deportation, all while sharing dreams and braiding masterpieces.
Meet the Artists
Stay after the show for a FREE post-show behind-the-scenes discussion with artists from the production.
Tickets
Enjoy $58 Price Zone B Tickets for only $52 including ticket processing fee and support scholarships for African-American Students!
