There is no reason to think that teenagers are any different anywhere around the world. What makes certain plays so compelling is the universal truth that can be found in their stories that transcend cultures, languages and location. Such is true of School Girls, or The African Mean Girls Play. Performances began on Sunday at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City and the show will run there until September 30th.
Written by Jocelyn Bioh, the subtitle tells you most of what you need to know. It’s a play about the jealousies that run rampant at a boarding school when one girl’s popularity and chances of being a beauty pageant contestant are challenged when a new, and possibly prettier and more likable girl shows up.
During 75 quick minutes the audience realizes that girls in Ghana are no different than girls in Santa Ana in this highly-acclaimed comedy.
School Girls is directed by Rebecca Taichman (winner if the 2017 Tony Award for Best Direction of a Play for Paula Vogel’s Indecent. Appearing in the play are MaameYaa Boafo, Latoya Edwards, Paige Gilbert, Joanna A. Jones, Abena Mensah-Bonsu, Mirirai Sithole, Myra Lucretia Taylor and Zenzi Williams.
Photo from the MCC Theatre production of “School Girls” by Joan Marcus