The Great Jheri Curl Debate

​Veralynn Jackson knows hair, her neighborhood, and that the invention of the Jheri Curl marks the end of the world. When she takes a job in Mr. Kim’s Korean-owned Black beauty supply store and the posters start talking to her, Veralynn might finally come to know her true calling. South Side Chicago meets South Korea in this world-premiere play where a business partnership and a touch of magical realism bring these two unlikely friends closer to understanding themselves and each other.

The Great Jheri Curl Debate is written by Inda Craig-Galván, an award-winning writer, exploring intra-racial conflicts and politics within the African-American community through plays and television. Her works a hit dog will holler (Skylight Theatre & Playwrights' Arena co-production), Black Super Hero Magic Mama (Geffen Playhouse) and I Go Somewhere Else (Playwrights' Arena) have been produced throughout Los Angeles. The Great Jheri Curl Debate was developed in the East West Players’ Playwrights Group and was a finalist for the 44th annual Bay Area Playwrights Festival.

All performances of The Great Jheri Curl Debate are presented at the David Henry Hwang Theater at the Union Center of the Arts at 120 Judge John Aiso Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 in Little Tokyo. The Great Jheri Curl Debate performs September 15 through October 9. A press night will be held Saturday September 17, with opening night occurring Sunday September 18. Performance times Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Monday are at 8pm, with additional 2 PM matinees on Saturday and 5pm performances on Sunday. Ticket prices range from $40 to $60. A Pay-What-You-Can performance is scheduled for Monday, September 26 at 8PM.

At time of purchase please mention any wheelchair/accessible seating needs. Student, senior, and group discounts are available. Dates, details, and ticket prices are subject to change.

All patrons must show proof of vaccination and photo ID to be admitted into the theater. EWP has implemented numerous COVID-19 safety protocols to ensure that artists and audience members are able to safely enjoy their experience.

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