VANGUARD THEATER
February 28TH
BOOK AND LYRICS BY JANEECE FREEMAN CLARK
MUSIC BY LAWRENCE DANDRIDGE
ABOUT HAIRSTORY
Hairstory: The Musical follows 10-year-old Jada, who wishes her natural hair could just be “normal” — less time-consuming, easier to manage, easier to ignore. When she is visited by the voices of her ancestors, she is guided by Braidelyn on a journey of discovery through time, culture, and hair traditions. Along the way, Jada learns how hair can hold history, identity, protection, resistance, and pride — and begins to see her own hair, and herself, without apology. Featuring a diverse ensemble of seven actors and an original score inspired by pop, Latin, gospel, Rastafarian, and global musical influences, Hairstory uses live performance, music, and projection to bring the stories held within hair traditions to life on stage. It is a coming-of-age story about self-acceptance, connection, and discovering the power in who you already are.
Hairstory: The Musical is brought to life by a dynamic and diverse ensemble of artists whose unique backgrounds, training, and lived experiences enrich every moment of this production.
Coming together from varying artistic disciplines and personal journeys, this cast shares a collective commitment to telling this story with authenticity, heart, and joy. Their voices, movement, and storytelling reflect the cultural depth and intergenerational spirit at the center of Hairstory.
As they embody characters rooted in heritage, imagination, and resilience, this ensemble honors the traditions that inspired the work while offering fresh, contemporary energy to its world premiere.
We are proud to introduce the artists bringing this special story to the stage.
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VANGUARD THEATER COMPANY
Founded in 2015, Vanguard Theater is a not-for-profit company changing social and cultural narratives through theater dedicated to DREAM: Diversity, Reciprocity, Education, Activism & Mentorship. For more information, visit www.VanguardTheaterCompany.org or find us across social media @VTCNJ and #dreamVTC
OUR VISION: To be recognized as a model in the theater community for purposeful inclusion of diverse voices and stories; partnerships that propel cross community conversations; and casting and leadership that reflects our communities.