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May 17 - June 15 Mandell Weiss Theatre
By Jocelyn Bioh Directed by Whitney White
“Hot and hilarious… prepare for laughter.” The New York Times
Direct from Broadway, this dazzling production welcomes you into Jaja’s bustling shop in Harlem, where a lively and eclectic group of West African hair braiders create masterpieces on the heads of neighborhood women. During one sweltering summer day, love will blossom, dreams will flourish and friendships will be tested. When their uncertain circumstances boil over, this tight-knit group must confront what it means to be outsiders in the place they call home.
The Guardian called it “rapturous,” and The New York Times raved, “full of treasurable moments, when the drama feels tightly woven with the comedy.” Featuring humor as entertaining as its characters, this extraordinary Tony Award-winning play by Ghanaian-American playwright Jocelyn Bioh celebrates courage, community and the indomitable spirit of women. Jaja’s is a must-see for San Diego.
Discover More
“A powerful comedy with a twist… equally affecting as it is hilarious” Entertainment Weekly
“Wildly entertaining” The Guardian
“Bright, generous, and forceful” Vulture
“Bristling with wit and drama” The Daily Beast
Awards
Tony Awards: 1 win for Best Costume Design and 5 nominations
Nominated for 3 Drama Desk Awards
Nominated for 3 Drama League Awards
Nominated for Two Outer Critics Circle Awards
Jaja’s African Hair Braiding is a co-production with Arena Stage, Berkeley Repertory Theatre and Chicago Shakespeare Theater, in association with Madison Wells Live & LaChanze.
Ticket Information
Single tickets are now on sale.
La Jolla Playhouse is the only authorized ticket seller for this production.
Enjoy lowest prices and the best seats? Include this show in a subscription package:
Design-Your-Own Subscription: Mix and match 3 or more shows from $139
Premium 6-Play Subscription: Enjoy great seats and the lowest prices; all 6 shows from $54 each
First Look (previews)*: May 17 – May 21
Weeks 2 – 4: May 23 – June 15
* ‘First Look’ performances are the first week of the run (with some exceptions). First Look tickets are lower price and offer the opportunity to experience the show while the creative team are still polishing and making changes. This is a vital element of a show’s evolution, allowing the creative team to see the show through the eyes of the audience. Playhouse staff speak to the audience before the show starts, and the creative team may be seated near you taking notes. Please take this into account when purchasing tickets.
Content Guidance
This show is recommended for ages 12 and up. Read about our age recommendations here. If you have any questions, please get in touch with our Patron Services team at [email protected] or (858) 550-1010 and we’ll be happy to give you more info.
Ticket Discounts
The Playhouse offers a range of ways to save on tickets, including Military, Student and Rush discounts, and $30 tickets in Area 3. Discounts are subject to availability and conditions may apply. Read more here or call Patron Services at (858) 550-1010 for more info.
Audience Engagement Events
Enhance your Playhouse experience by attending these free events. Simply book your performance for one of the following dates.
Talkback Tuesdays
Participate in a lively discussion with performers and Playhouse staff members immediately following the performance.
Tue, Jun 3 and 10 after the 7:30pm show
Discovery Sunday
Hear from guest speakers in a moderated discussion exploring the themes of the show.
Sun, Jun 8 after the 1pm show
ACCESS PERFORMANCE
ACCESS Performance (ASL interpretation): Sat, May 31, 2pm
The Playhouse caters for a wide range of access and special requirements. Access performances offer American Sign Language interpretation for patrons who are d/Deaf or hard-of-hearing, captioning for patrons to access on individual devices, and a relaxed welcoming environment for patrons with sensory sensitivities. Audio Description for patrons who are blind or have low vision can be requested in advance. Please call (858) 550-1010 or email [email protected] and we will work with you to address your access needs. Find more info about access here.
Sensory-Friendly Guide
Read the Sensory-Friendly Guide for the Weiss Theatre here.
Useful Information
Duration
This play is approx. 90 minutes with no intermission.
Parking
UC San Diego’s Theatre District Parking Structure is across the road from the Playhouse. Ticket buyers can pay for parking on-site, at the ParkMobile website parkmobile.io or with the ParkMobile app. Subscribers get free parking. Find all parking information here.
Health and Safety
La Jolla Playhouse no longer requires patrons to wear masks indoors while attending our theatres. However, we recommend indoor masking while at La Jolla Playhouse. Visit our health and safety page here for the latest information.
Onsite Dining
La Jolla Playhouse’s on-site restaurant, James’ Place, is open for dinner service at 5pm nightly (Tue – Sun). Please note, James’ Place is not open prior to matinee performances. James’ Place offers full bar service and a selection of specialty sushi, Asian fusion, steak & coastal cuisine items. Reserve your table on OpenTable or by phone on (858) 638-7778. Indoor and outdoor seating available.
Concessions
Concessions opens 60 mins before showtime. Come early to relax outside and enjoy a selection of beer, wine, cocktails, sodas and individually wrapped snacks. All food must be consumed before entering the theatre while concession drinks with lids will be allowed in the theatre.
Production Sponsors
Ralph and Gail Bryan
Cast & Creators
Jocelyn Bioh
Playwright
Whitney White
Director
Venue Info
Mandell Weiss Theatre
The Mandell Weiss Theatre is a 492-seat proscenium arch theatre, with two front rows of removable seats allowing for a greater stage length. The theatre also maintains an upstairs wooden deck for parties, receptions and outdoor gatherings, and a small outdoor amphitheatre for pre-show entertainment.
