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Jaja’s African Hair Braiding Tickets
The Tony Award-winning comedy transfers to the Lyric Hammersmith for a strictly limited run
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Important Information
This production is recommended for ages 10+.
About Jaja’s African Hair Braiding
Step into Jaja’s, a bustling Harlem braiding salon where neighborhood women come to turn their hairstyle dreams into reality, thanks to the skill and energy of a vibrant group of West African immigrant braiders. Over the course of one scorching summer day, the salon becomes a pressure cooker of drama—demanding clients, secrets, laughter, and betrayals all collide. Each woman carries her own big ambitions, which increasingly bring them into conflict with the city they call home. The UK premiere of this Tony Award-winning comedy brings together the creative team behind the hit School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play, reuniting writer Jocelyn Bioh and director Monique Touko.
###The Story Unfolds: Origins and Evolution
Step inside the vibrant world of Jaja’s African Hair Braiding, coming to the Lyric Hammersmith. Fresh from its Tony-nominated Broadway run, Jocelyn Bioh’s acclaimed comedy takes place in a bustling Harlem braiding salon, where a group of West African immigrant women spend one sweltering summer day working, laughing, arguing, and dreaming together.
The salon is more than a business—it’s a home away from home, a safe haven, and a hub of community. Between the braids and the banter, the women share their hopes, struggles, and secrets, creating a story that is as funny as it is heartfelt. This is theatre that celebrates culture, resilience, and the power of connection.
###Behind the Scenes: Crafting the Spectacle
Directed by Monique Touko, this production transforms the stage into a salon bursting with life. From the buzz of hairdryers to the rhythm of conversation, every detail captures the atmosphere of a space where joy and tension sit side by side.
With sharp writing, dynamic performances, and a rich design that blends realism with vibrancy, the show is a living portrait of community. The characters are crafted with humour and honesty, and their stories weave together into a tapestry that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant.
###Keep in Mind
Jaja’s African Hair Braiding is a must-see for anyone looking for bold, contemporary theatre that celebrates identity, explores belonging, and showcases voices rarely heard on the London stage. Book your tickets today for this vibrant and unforgettable UK premiere.
