Jaja’s African Hair Braiding Review by Ariel Mary Ann
This past week, I had the absolute pleasure of attending Jaja’s African Hair Braiding at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati. Written by Jocelyn Bioh with direction by Torie Wiggins, this comedic play showcases the daily hustle and bustle of a Harlem hair shop.
Cast and Plot
Jaja’s African Hair Braiding is more than a hair shop, it’s a place of community… a sacred space. Ndidi (Jasimine Bouldin), Aminata (Candice Handy), Bea (Keisha L. Kemper), Miriam (Brianna Miller), and Marie (Samantha Russell) make up the eclectic group of stylists who keep the shop running along with owner, Jaja (Burgess Byrd).
In the opening scene, we see the shop come to life as the stylists prepare for business. Handy as Aminata lights up the room with charm and comedic fierceness. Her energy is balanced out with the equally charming and fully iconic Keisha L. Kemper as Bea. Bouldin shines as fellow stylist Ndidi.
Actors AJ Baldwin, Beasley, Elexis Selmon, and Samuel Stricklen play various characters flowing in and out of the shop. From clients and partners to quirky classmates you’ll be crying tears of laughter.
Byrd as Jaja commands the room when she walks in. Being the mother of Marie (Russell), Jaja (Byrd) is fiercely protective and only wants the best for her child.
Direction Guides the Sisterhood
In a world that treats black women unfairly, the Black hair shop operates as a safe haven from the world outside. In this particular case, Jaja’s is where we see Black sisterhood come alive. Director Torie Wiggins, a Cincinnati staple, (and local theatre icon – according to this theatre critic) has done it again. Her direction is smooth and flawless as ever. If Wiggins is at the helm, you know you’re in for a good time. And with Piper N. Davis and Aleah Vassell assisting, you know you are in extra good hands.
Brian C. Mehring (scenic and lighting designer) is responsible for the authentic look of their shop. Tiara M. Jones’s costume, hair, and wig design (executed with Aniya Williams) knocks it out of the park.
Themes of Jaja’s African Hair Braiding
The stylists of Jaja’s dream of a brighter future for themselves and their loved ones. As the show progresses, we start to see the harsh reality of what it means to be an immigrant in the United States. Although a comedy, Jaja’s African Hair Braiding examines the power and strength of community. In times of strife, love will persist. The love and caring that these women have for one another is what holds them together in the climax of the play.
Overall
Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati’s Jaja’s African Hair Braiding is an unapologetic love letter to Black women and girls everywhere. As a Black woman and theatre artist/reviewer, this performance touched me on a very deep and personal level.
Tickets to Jaja’s African Hair Braiding
This is a stellar production that should not be missed. Jaja’s African Hair Braiding runs through June 22nd. Get your tickets here.
