Lyric Hammersmith Theatre has announced full casting for the UK premiere of Jaja’s African Hair Braiding, running from 18 March to 25 April 2026.
Written by Jocelyn Bioh and directed by Monique Touko, the production reunites the creative duo behind the 2023 smash hit School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play.
After premiering on Broadway during the Manhattan Theatre Club’s 2023–2024 season, Jaja’s African Hair Braiding became one of the most celebrated new comedies of the year. Its run was extended twice and several final performances were live streamed due to demand. The production went on to win two Tony Awards and receive six additional nominations, alongside recognition across the Drama Desk Awards, Drama League Awards and Outer Critics Circle Awards.
The newly announced cast features Bola Akeju as Ndidi, Renee Bailey as Vanessa, Sheila and Radia, babirye bukilwa as Aminata, Zainab Jah as Jaja, Demmy Ladipo as James, Franklin, Olu and Eric, Dani Moseley as Michelle, Chrissy and Laniece, Sewa Zamba in their professional stage debut as Marie, Jadesola Odunjo as Miriam, Dolapo Oni as Bea and Karene Peter as Jennifer.
Writer Jocelyn Bioh said:
“It is the joy and honor of my life to have “Jaja’s African Hair Braiding” make its UK premiere at the Lyric Hammersmith under the incredible direction of Monique Touko. In many ways, this play is about the power of love and community – two things I felt exponentially after the overwhelming success of our production of “School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play” in 2023. I’m thrilled to be working with much of the same creative team and I hope to bring more laughter, joy and connection to UK audiences again. I can’t wait to welcome them into the shop!”
Director Monique Touko said:
“To be bringing Jocelyn Bioh’s Jaja’s African Hair Braiding to UK audiences is a real honour. Her stories contain heart, vibrancy and soul and populating this world was an absolute joy. We have assembled a talented bunch of actors from theatre and screen to bring Harlem to life in 2019 on one summers day. Meet our braiders and welcome to the shop.”
Artistic Director Rachel O’Riordan added:
“We’re delighted to welcome back writer Jocelyn Bioh and director Monique Touko – the talented duo behind the 2023 smash-hit Schools Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play – for Jaja’s African Hair Braiding. I cannot wait for audiences to meet the wonderful cast as they laugh, hope and dream on our beautiful stage.”
The creative team includes Set Design by Paul Wills, Wigs, Hair and Make-Up Design by Cynthia De La Rosa, Costume Design by Jessica Cabassa, Lighting Design by Simisola Majekodunmi, Sound Design by Tony Gayle, Video Design by Dick Straker, Movement Direction by Kloé Dean and Casting by Julia Horan CDG.
Set in a bustling Harlem braiding salon, the play takes place across one sweltering summer’s day as a group of West African immigrant braiders and their clients navigate secrets, ambition, conflict and community.
Listings and ticket information can be found here
