Chicago Weekend Guide: "Jaja's African Hair Braiding," Brooke Shields, SoxFest
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"Jaja's African Hair Braiding." Photo: Courtesy of T Charles Erickson
Now playing at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, "Jaja's African Hair Braiding" is a vibrant production spotlighting African and Black culture, beauty and some of the harsh realities of immigration.
Why it matters: The 90-minute play is especially topical with President Trump's executive orders on immigration.
The big picture: Directed by Whitney White, who grew up in Chicago, "Jaja's African Hair Braiding" gives attendees a glimpse into an African hair braiding shop while spotlighting the often untold story of immigrants from countries such as Sierra Leone, Ghana, Nigeria and Senegal.
- The play shows the hardships and sacrifices many immigrants make in an effort to build a better future for themselves and their families.
What they're saying: "We rarely hear about African immigrants' stories and when we do, they are forgotten quickly, and it's important because we're here and our stories deserve to be told," actress Bisserat Tseggai told Axios.
Moyo's thought bubble: As a Nigerian American, I have a soft spot in my heart for this production. If you're looking for a good laugh or want to feel unexpectedly moved, you should go. It's excellent for Chicago's diverse audience.
The vibe: The play features vibrant costumes, comedic writing, Afrobeats and rich accents. There is also a hair gallery outside the theater you can see before and after the show.
If you go: "Jaja's African Hair Braiding" is playing through Feb. 2 at Chicago Shakespeare Theater at Navy Pier.
🎟️ Cost: Tickets range from $64–130. For ages 30 and under, $30 tickets are available.
🤳🏾 Behind the scenes: Watch me talk to the cast members as I go behind the curtain.
More things to do this weekend in Chicago:
- While plunging is sold out, embrace the chill and cheer on locals as they dip into Lake Michigan to raise money for families in need.
- Saturday at noon at Oak Street Beach.
🤳🏾 Flashback: Last January, I took the plunge.
- Start the Lunar New Year festivities early with activities and performances.
- 1–3:30pm Saturday at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago in Rosemont.
Cost: Free
- This was not just a 2024 fad; the caffeinated cocktail is still hot. Sip on 15 different options at this indoor tasting festival.
- 5–8pm Saturday at Hubbard Inn in River North.
Cost: $59
- Watch the Pixies lead go solo for his "Teenager of the Year" tour.
- Doors open at 6:30pm, show begins at 7:30pm Saturday and Sunday at the Metro in Lakeview.
Cost: Tickets start at $35
⚾ SoxFest
- Let's kiss last season goodbye and show the Chicago White Sox some love with photo-ops, snacks and well wishes for a better season this year.
- 5pm Saturday and Sunday at the Ramova Theater in Bridgeport.
Cost: Tickets start at $51
- Immerse yourself in this magical show for the "Let's Dance!" performance featuring Mickey Mouse and friends.
- Now–Jan. 26 and Feb. 6–9 at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont.
- Jan. 30–Feb. 2 at the United Center.
Cost: Tickets start at $18
- Grab your tickets for an evening with actress Brooke Shields as she discusses her new memoir, "Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old: Thoughts on Aging as a Woman."
- Doors open at 6:30pm, show begins at 7:30pm Wednesday, Jan. 29, at the Auditorium Theatre.
Cost: Tickets start at $39.50