The Vibe
If you thought your high school drama was intense, wait until you step into the Aburi Girls Boarding School in 1986 Ghana. Jocelyn Bioh’s School Girls; or, the African Mean Girls Play is officially hitting Broadway, and lowkey, it’s giving everything. Directed by Whitney White, this 75-minute production is a wild ride through the complexities of Black girlhood, colorism, and the absolute chaos of teen friendship.
The Drama
The plot centers on Paulina (played by the sensational Denée Benton), the queen bee of her boarding school crew. She’s the ultimate main character, obsessed with her (imaginary) pro-football boyfriend and plotting to win the Miss Ghana 1986 pageant. But the plot thickens when a new girl, Ericka (Jasmine Amy Rogers), rolls up from the States. Ericka is the total package—midwestern accent, fly fits, and the ‘right’ skin tone—which sends Paulina into a complete tailspin. She goes full villain to protect her status, but honestly? The way the cast navigates these power dynamics is an absolute masterclass.
Why it matters
While the play is filled with iconic 80s references, from New Edition obsession to Every Little Step playing on repeat, it isn't just nostalgia. It’s a real talk look at how society, colonialism, and beauty standards mess with our heads. Paulina’s insecurity, Nana’s struggle with her body, and Gifty’s dyslexia aren't just subplots; they’re deep reflections on how it feels to be a Black girl in a world that often refuses to see your worth. It’s a total W for theater that manages to be hilarious and gutting at the same time. Say less—you need to see this.
