Barber Shop Chronicles
Synopsis
One day. Six cities. A thousand stories.
For generations, African men have gathered in barber shops. Sometimes they have haircuts, sometimes they listen, more often than not they talk. Barber shops are confession boxes, political platforms, preacher-pulpits and football pitches… places to go for unofficial advice, and to keep in touch with the world.
Fuel has produced Inua Ellams’ work for theatre since his debut play nine years ago. Barber Shop Chronicles is a heart-warming, hilarious and insightful play, set in Johannesburg, Harare, Kampala, Lagos, Accra and London. The play invites the audience into a uniquely masculine environment where the banter may be barbed, but the truth always telling.
The barbers of these tales are sages, role models and father figures, they are the glue that keeps men together.
Running time: 1h 45mins with no interval
Age Recommendation: 12+
Tickets
£22 – £10
DISCOUNTS*
£15 Under 16s
£20 16-26 yrs
£4 off for Groups 10+ (weekdays and matinees) / £2.50 off (weekends)
15% off for Members Thu – Sat or 2-for-1 tickets on Wed 3 Apr
AFTERSHOW DISCUSSION
Fri 5 Apr
*Discounts are subject to availability and may be removed at any time. Only valid on certain performances - terms and conditions apply.
Credits & Acknowledgments
WRITTEN BY INUA ELLAMS
DIRECTOR BIJAN SHEIBANI
CASTING DIRECTOR LOUIS HAMMOND CDG
Co-commissioned by Fuel and the National Theatre. Development funded by Arts Council England with the support of Fuel, National Theatre, Leeds Playhouse, The Binks Trust, British Council ZA, Òran Mór and A Play, a Pie and a Pint.
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Reviews
Rich and exhilarating. A fascinating peek into the barber shop
The Stage
Throbs with energy and heat. Full of sadness and great joy
Daily Telegraph
Joyous. Brilliantly acted. Life-affirming. Go
Independent
Production images
