Jocelyn Bioh’s vibrant comedy, staged at the Lyric Hammersmith, plunges into a single day within a bustling Harlem hair braiding salon, brimming with quick wit and delightful shenanigans. The statement “Don’t touch my hair” stands as a potent, racially-charged declaration of Black femininity, embodying the deeply personal as profoundly political. Within Bioh’s narrative, hair undeniably carries significant political weight; yet, the play paradoxically explores a space rich with consensual touch and communal connection.
This production, skillfully directed by Monique Touko, follows Bioh’s acclaimed “School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play,” and has already captivated audiences during its successful run on Broadway. Its widespread appeal is unmistakable: the show radiates an irresistible mix of abundant charm, sharp humor, and an insuppressible, audience-delighting energy. It’s nearly impossible not to be utterly enchanted by its pervasive warmth.