Nearly a decade after its first staging, Jocelyn Bioh’s School Girls; Or, the African Mean Girls Play has made its Broadway debut to glowing reviews. The comedy, which explores girlhood in 1980s Ghana, has built momentum since its 2017 off-Broadway premiere.
Originally staged off-Broadway in 2017, the School Girls play transferred to Los Angeles before returning to New York for a remount in 2018. Since then, it has been produced in more than 75 theaters across the United States and ran successfully in London. A new Broadway production, directed by Whitney White, marks the latest evolution of the work.
KEY FACTS:
HOW DID WE GET HERE?
The School Girls play began as a one-act comedy written by Jocelyn Bioh, who previously earned a Tony Award for her work on Jaja’s African Hair Braiding. After its 2017 off-Broadway premiere, the piece moved to Los Angeles and returned to New York in 2018. These successive productions helped refine the material, culminating in its Broadway debut under the direction of Whitney White, who brought visual flair through collaborations with designer Nikiya Mathis and costumer Qween Jean.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
The Broadway run represents the latest iteration of a play that continues to resonate with audiences. Its ongoing success suggests potential for further regional and international productions. The creative team behind the current staging includes veterans known for elevating ensemble-driven works, including those recognized for their contributions to Tony-winning shows.
WHAT WE KNOW — AND WHAT WE DON’T:
Verified by the source:
- The play premiered off-Broadway in 2017.
- It was remounted in New York in 2018.
- More than 75 US theaters have staged the production.
- Broadway debut received critical acclaim according to The Guardian.
Still unconfirmed:
- Exact dates of all regional and international productions.
- Box office performance figures for the Broadway engagement.
- Long-term plans for future tours or transfers.
WHY IT MATTERS
The sustained popularity of the School Girls play highlights growing interest in diverse storytelling on stage. Its journey from small theater to Broadway reflects broader trends toward inclusive narratives in American theater, offering audiences fresh perspectives rooted in underrepresented voices. The production also underscores how well-crafted comedies can address cultural identity while entertaining.
WHAT TO WATCH
Future announcements may reveal additional touring plans or new works from Jocelyn Bioh. Meanwhile, the cast and crew continue to champion stories centered on Black girlhood and female friendship.
The Guardian reviewed the Broadway debut of School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play, noting its strong reception since 2017.