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Applause for the big celebritys entranceis pretty standardon Broadway, likewise for the magical musical costume change.
But how many times have you heard the house brought down by a wig?
Or, for that matter, by the entrance of a minor character selling socks?
But its not just that.
The screams, the cheers, the I cants theyre about recognition.
Jaja (Somi Kakoma) is getting married!
Marie, for one, is already anxious.
And even more nerve-racking: Given her mothers immigration status, will college even be an option for Marie?
The whole ensemble ofJajasis strong, but the play really finds its punch when the two veterans roll up.
These customers are also a great part of the plays delight.
About those wigs, created by hair and wig designer Nikiya Mathis: They really are a technical marvel.
and the intense labor of it: When Miriam has finished, her fingers are covered in blisters.
At least they didnt bleed this time, she says stoically.
Ill soak them when I get home.
But this isnt subtle stuff, and its not meant to be.
Instead, its bright, generous, and forceful, and those currents carry the day.
As Miriam says, perhaps speaking partly for her playwright, No more time for quiet.
I want to be loud, yeah?
Jajas African Hair Braidingis at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre.
