The “Bad Boys” are back, and they’ve delivered an exhilarating ride once again. With action-packed scenes, enthralling moments, and heartfelt emotions, Will Smith and Martin Lawrence have knocked it out of the park with their latest installment, Bad Boys Ride or Die.
On May 22nd, The Knockturnal joined Ciroc and Off-White at the DCTV Firehouse in NYC for an unforgettable afterparty, marking the launch of Off-White’s innovative new sneaker, “Be Right Back”. This event not only celebrated their latest footwear innovation but also emphasized wellness and self-care, echoing Off-White’s mantra, “BE WELL.”
In the dimly lit elegance of Lincoln Center, on Thursday, November 30th. Ava DuVernay’s latest cinematic masterpiece Origin premiered featuring an ensemble cast including Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Jon Bernthal, Niecy Nash-Betts, Emily Yancy, Finn Wittrock, Victoria Pedretti, Jasmine Cephas Jones, Isha Carlos Blaaker, Vera Farmiga, Audra McDonald, Connie Nielsen, Blair Underwood, Nick Offerman, Stephanie March, and Myles Frost, with an original song by Stan Walker. Origin is a cinematic adaptation of Isabel Wilkerson’s New York Times best-seller “Caste.” It delves into the mysteries of history, peeling away the superficial layers of racial discord to uncover universal core issues.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor delivers a compelling portrayal of Pulitzer Prize-winner Isabel Wilkerson, leading us through an intimate odyssey of grief, revelation, and reflection.
Origin skillfully draws parallels between past atrocities and the harsh realities of contemporary politics, caste, and experiences both on a domestic and international scale. From the untouchables in India to the shackles of American slavery, the film fearlessly confronts the echoes of Jim Crow laws and the haunting specter of Nazi atrocities during the Holocaust.
NYC, NY – 11/30/23 -ORIGIN New York Premiere
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– PICTURED: Ava DuVernay and Niecy Nash-Betts
– PHOTO by: Dave Allocca / StarPix
– Location: Alice Tully Hall
The film’s strength and brilliance lie in its capacity to forge human connections. It explores the shared experiences of loss, love, friendship, and community, affirming that, beyond prejudices and artificial divisions, we are bound together by the common threads of our existence. DuVernay’s artistry shines not just in bringing a best-seller to life but also in sculpting the narrative to be accessible and relatable to all.
As the credits rolled, the audience, myself included, was left in tears and awe, resulting in a thunderous standing ovation that resonated through the theater.
Following the cinematic adventure was a captivating Q&A session, providing a glimpse into the minds behind this masterpiece.
Panel Moderator: Of all the possibilities, what drew you to this particular story?
Ava DuVernay: I read the book the first time, I read it, but I didn’t really get it, the second time I started to get deeper into it and by the third time I read it I felt I wanna talk to everyone about this and I wish everyone knew, the ideas we can dissect and play with and test it and try it out and see if there’s a new language, to talk about the things that ale us. So it really came from a desire to share that information similar to 13 found information wanted to share and really try to figure out the way to catalyze the ideas that excite me, and interest me and put them in form crafted in a way that other people would be willing to talk to me about it. The idea here was can I do it in a way that wasn’t a documentary that was the big puzzle. Could I find a way to make it a story that had human emotion so that you could see the ideas of collective memory and personal memory running side by side and go deeper into the story and that was the puzzle for me.
Aunjanue Ellis Taylor: For me, I was aware of the book but I had not read it. I had read Warmth of Other Suns the other brilliant book led by Isabel Wilkerson and what I gleaned from what Ms. Wilkerson did, I just knew the ideas she was proffering was something that could transform how we speak about how we are in this country, and then finding out that Ava DuVernay how I feel is a freedom fighter who poses as a director I just wanted to be apart, I wanted to be a soldier in this and so I wanted to so badly be in it, that I wanted her to say yes and I’m glad that she did.
Jonathan Bernthal: For me, I flew down to Savannah and begged Ava to put me in the movie before I knew the script I just really wanted to work with her. There are parts of Isabel’s book that I read that aligned with something that I felt I’ve always felt or thought but it’s never been articulated and I could never put a finger on it and It made me think it made me feel it left me with so much hope so I desperately wanted to be apart of it as you see the journey that Isabel went on was singular it was a mission with no stone unturned and when I got to know Ava I see the why that she fights and I see the way that she’s on a mission, she’s doing this and that she’s unstoppable and she’s a force so man this woman is on a mission I’ve worked with Aunjanue before I think she’s one of a kind and I think she’s doing something that no one else does and I wanted to be in service of three unbelievable, powerful incredible women.
Niecy Nash-Betts: What drew me to this movie was friendship and love. Ava called and I answered. And she said have you read this book and I said girl not yet and she said well I wrote this part with you in mind and I said oh yea She said but I know you can’t do it because you’re doing a full-time job so. I said here’s what I can do. I can help you think of somebody else who can do it so I began sending her names of people and everybody she rejected no, no, no. She said my problem is… I’ve only ever seen you in my mind but I know it’s not gonna work because of your schedule so then I said friend did you pray about it she said nah I said we got started there, and God answered our prayers and my full-time job allowed me to get off a little early at the end of the week so that I could fly to Savannah but I didn’t have any days off I would go then fly back and I will tell you this is the most beautiful piece of art I have ever been apart of.
Paul Garnes: The conversations we had about it, she was able to add many of those conversations into the movie. Things that we all talked about the communication, the differences, the things that were alike, humanity, it was a true blessing to watch this process from the kernel of an idea of taking a book into a movie to now being here tonight.
Stan Walker: It kinda just happened quickly. Long story short Ava sent the film to me and I watched it on my phone and I cried while waiting for my wife, and because I couldn’t wait for her and she got annoyed at me so we watched it again and I cried again! but it just moved me so much because I saw a little me in there, I saw my people in there, I saw similar stories that drew me in. I felt like I had something to say, and with the song that I was blessed to be able to do was a response to how I was feeling and how it made me feel. I feel like the song was birthed out of wanting to give hope and empower people to take back their identity and culture because we deserve that.
As the Q & A Concluded it was realized that the film transcends its role as mere entertainment; but it becomes a mirror reflecting the complexities of our shared humanity, leaving a mark on all fortunate enough to witness its brilliance. Tickets are now available for one-week special engagements in LA (AMC Century City) and NY (AMC Lincoln Square) starting December 8th. In select theaters on January 19th, 2024.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 06: Lynn Nottage speaks onstage while Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center Hosts The 22nd Monte Cristo Award Honoring Lynn Nottage at Capitale on November 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Eugene O’Neill Theater)
The Knockturnal was honored to be part of the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center Gala at The Capitale in New York City. This night celebrated Award-winning playwright and screenwriter Lynn Nottage, recipient of the 22nd Annual Monte Cristo Award. This prestigious accolade is an annual tribute to a visionary artist whose work has deeply impacted American theater.
In the midst of this grand celebration, The Knockturnal had the privilege to chat with attendees and performers Justin Hicks, Quincy Tyler Bernstein, and Illario Grant on the red carpet, capturing their emotions and hopes for the impact of the award. We were also honored to speak with honoree Lynn Nottage, who graciously shared her thoughts and hopes for the next generation.
The Knockturnal: As you step onto the carpet tonight, How does it feel to be in attendance for such a special night?
Justin Hicks: It’s special for me because I love Lynn so very much, it feels good and it also feels good to see so many people in the theatre community here its kinda a reunion.
The Knockturnal: What do you envision the benefit of tonight’s gala being for future playwrights and artists?
Justin Hicks: I think anytime someone like Lynn is being awarded or honored it kind of puts a spotlight on someone who may be like her and in various ways, She’s been such a trailblazer in so many ways and I think she also is someone who maintains a level of honesty and in-depth interaction with people that she writes about so I think that’s something that should stick around and something that won’t go out of style.
The Knockturnal: As you step onto the carpet tonight, How are you feeling? What are some thoughts going through your mind and how does it feel to be here?
Quincy Tyler Bernstein: I’m just thrilled to be here, I’m honored to be here Lynn Nottage is one of our greatest living playwrights and I’m so happy I can be here to celebrate her
The Knockturnal: What does it mean to you to be a part of something so special?
Quincy Tyler Bernstein: I just feel really lucky I get to participate in something like this to call Lynn a friend and a former colleague, and I feel really blessed to be here.
The Knockturnal: What does it mean to be a part of this moment of tonight? Being in attendance, what are your emotions and feelings tonight as you step onto the carpet?
Illario Grant: Very excited, doing red carpet, doing press. I’m able to express how important the arts are as a young black man in the arts i think it’s important that I’m here tonight to represent that!
The Knockturnal: What are your hopes for the future of this foundation what are your hopes for future playwrights and artists who will be receiving funding for new work?
Illario Grant: More black artists… it’s important in the business I think that we also have a voice so we have the stuff to say so I think more black artists are needed
The Knockturnal: If you had the opportunity to create your own original play from scratch what would the character or storyline be?
Illario Grant: I think it would be equality something that deals with the world today because there’s a lot going on in the world and there’s a lot of inequality so something dealing with those issues.
The Knockturnal: Happy Belated birthday and congratulations on being honored tonight how are you feeling right now?
Lynn Nottage: To get to this point in your career and your recognized by your peers it’s a little bit daunting but it’s beautiful and worth it.
The Knockturnal: What are your hopes for the next generation of playwrights and artists who are following the path that I’ve blazed for so long?
Lynn Nottage: What my hope is for the next generation is that they continue to innovate, and tell stories. Things have shifted, I feel bigger artists have to be much more socially, politically, and culturally engaged, in my opinion, I feel the younger generation is much more invested in fame than storytelling so, my hope for the future is that we continue to create space for us to tell the diversity of stories that are out there.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 06: Tonya Pinkins and Joyce Sylvester perform onstage while Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center Hosts The 22nd Monte Cristo Award Honoring Lynn Nottage at Capitale on November 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Eugene O’Neill Theater )
After the carpet, the celebratory evening, directed by Seret Scott began with enlightening remarks, from the Eugene O’Neil Theater executive director Tiffani Gavin and featured an array of special performances paying homage to Nottage’s masterful plays, from a reading of “Poof!” skillfully performed by Tonya Pinkins and Joyce Sylvester, followed by an enthralling rendition of “Event The Night Has Ears” from “Mlima’s Tale,” performed by the talented Justin Hicks. The night continued to unfold with a powerful scene from “Ruined,” expertly read by Quincy Tyler Bernstein and Jason Bowen, and another from “Intimate Apparel,” brought to life by the dynamic duo of Stacey Sargeant and CJ Wilson, and a captivating monologue from “Crumbs from the Table of Joy,” skillfully performed by Gabby Beans.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 06: (L-R) Ilario Grant, Bre Jackson and Max Chambers perform onstage while Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center Hosts The 22nd Monte Cristo Award Honoring Lynn Nottage at Capitale on November 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Eugene O’Neill Theater )
These acts were not just artistic offerings but heartfelt tributes, and a testament to Lynn Nottage’s courage and influence in the theater. The night filled with heartwarming moments continued when Lynn Nottage’s daughter, Ruby Aiyo Gerber, stepped forward to present the 22nd Monte Cristo Award to her accomplished mother. As the night drew to a close, the audience was treated to a captivating performance by the incredible talents of the MJ Musical, Max Chambers, Bre Jackson, and Ilario Grant who left attendees in amazement, a perfect conclusion to a night dedicated to the magic of theater.
Notable guests for the evening included: Michael Douglas, O’Neill Board Chairman Tom Viertel, Carlo Alban, Krystal Joy Brown, Mario Cantone, Angel Desai, Jerry Dixon, Ben Durocher, John Jellison, Isabel Keating, Chalia La Tour, Jevares Myrick, Michael Potts, Laila Robbins, Ryan Spahn and others.
The evening’s Gala Committee included: Michael Douglas & Catherine Zeta-Jones, Stephen & Ruth Hendel, David Henry Hwang, Genia Kaplan Quinn & Dr. Bruce Quinn, Dominique Morisseau, Senator Chris Murphy (CT), The Nederlander Organization, Tom Viertel & Pat Daily, and Constanza Romero Wilson.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 06: Robbie Gordy speaks onstage while Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center Hosts The 22nd Monte Cristo Award Honoring Lynn Nottage at Capitale on November 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Eugene O’Neill Theater)
In Essence, this gala was more than a glamorous affair; it embodied the O’Neill Theater Center’s commitment to cultivating original works and supporting emerging artists. It marked a dedicated step towards the theater’s future, fueled by generous donations shaping its trajectory. The celebration underscored the power of storytelling, emphasizing the crucial role of fostering original works in American theater. Recognizing luminaries like Lynn Nottage, the event promised a brighter, more innovative future for the performing arts.
The Knockturnal was thrilled to be part of the radiant “We C You” event, hosted by Prime Video’s Culture Rated and Amazon Freevee. This incredible gathering took place at The Standard Boom Boom Room, offering breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the High Line, serving as the perfect backdrop to an evening celebrating changemakers and their contributions to the culture.
During this night of excellence, and excitement, we had the privilege of getting a sneak peek at various upcoming projects, including “Candy Cane Lane” and The Tyler Perry Story, to name just a few. The talented DJs Aye Boogie and Nyla Symone, provided the beats and energy that set the perfect mood for a night of pure entertainment and vibes. It was an unforgettable night and the ultimate prelude to what promises to be an extraordinary CultureCon.
CultureCon is set to kick off its return to NYC on Saturday, October 7, and Sunday, October 8 continuing its mission to empower countless diverse creatives, young professionals, and disruptors urging them to reach higher and dream bigger.
The Knockturnal had the chance to explore Citryne Rose, an opulent haven nestled in the heart of Midtown. This Caribbean women-owned masterpiece, brought to life by founder and visionary Julie Dastiné, is your passport to an enchanting realm of luxury. Each client is ushered into a world where they are pampered like royalty and immersed in an experience that seamlessly weaves together fun, style, and absolute refinement.
Citryne Rose isn’t just your ordinary salon; it’s a thrilling journey into the world of hair transformation. With a strong focus on textured hair and a mission to boost confidence and empowerment, it goes beyond their signature silk presses and natural styles. Thanks to a recent partnership with Redken, they’ve elevated their hair coloring game to new heights, expanding their palette while maintaining a commitment to healthy hair.
This salon doesn’t just settle for the ordinary; it consistently sets the stage for the latest beauty trends and industry standards through salon education, workshops, and more. It’s no surprise that Citryne Rose has become a sanctuary for so many, including the incredibly talented Trevor Noah.
As our adventure through the world of Citryne Rose unfolds, we dive into the heart of this experience through an engaging conversation with visionary founder Julie Dastiné. In this exchange, we discover her inspiration, motivation, and more!
The Knockturnal: Can you speak a little bit about your background and journey?
Julie Dastiné: I attended the Aveda Institute and graduated in 2009. During my time there, an instructor named Keith Campbell performed a razor-cut bob on one of my classmates. He was a talented Black man with a whole crew, and they had a vibe. I was so impressed that I wanted to learn more and work for him.
I searched for salons along 5th Avenue targeting corporate ones open to hiring me, but nothing came of it. I continued making persistent efforts to contact his salon. Since it was located in New Jersey, about 25 minutes from my parents’ house in Rockland County. From there I began an apprenticeship with one of his colleagues Akilah Abrams in Midtown on 33rd Street. I worked as her assistant for nearly a year before becoming a full-time stylist in New Jersey with Keith.
At that time, Instagram wasn’t as popular as now; it was all through word of mouth. I took my time with every client and received bi-weekly training, including cutting classes under his supervision. It was a small boutique salon, but it was absolutely beautiful. He served many professional women from Montclair, New Jersey, and I began attracting a similar clientele, including professional women, mothers, and even some celebrities.
This environment set the bar for me on how to provide the best energy in a salon space. After working with Keith, I started my journey as an entrepreneur in my dad’s basement. I began to build my Instagram following, collaborated with a YouTuber, went viral on Instagram, and grew my subscribers on YouTube.
The Knockturnal: Could you share the inspiration behind Citryne Rose? and a little more of the journey that led to its creation?
Julie Dastiné: The inspiration behind Citryne Rose was my healing. During the pandemic, my last business failed, which led to a lot of debt. Feeling the need for a change, I took a short trip to Philly, where I met an elderly man on the Street who struck up a conversation because of the yellow dress I was wearing. He asked what’s your name? ” When I told him “Julie”, he insisted my name was CITRINE. When the name “Citrine” hit my ears it felt as if a lightning bolt struck my heart. He started to share that he felt I’ve been here several times before and that I’ve been reincarnated. I had no prior knowledge of citrine crystals at that moment, so I researched it.
To my surprise, it happened to be my birthstone, symbolizing power, prosperity, and abundance, which resonated with me deeply. I felt a strong sense of alignment as I began using the crystals to channel the energy needed to envision prosperity, in the midst of seeing shambles and debt. During this time, my mother, Rose, wasn’t doing well, so I wanted to honor her. This led to the birth of Citryne Rose.
Citryne Rose represents the future, like the rose growing from the concrete, something that hasn’t been done and what people are afraid to do. My goal is to create community within the company and invest in our members and team. Citryne Rose isn’t just a salon seeking profit; it’s a space where people become part of a team and find stability. I’m dedicated to providing opportunities for stylists to thrive, receive support, and enjoy benefits like health insurance and a 401K.
The Knockturnal: For those who are discovering Citryne Rose, could you tell us about the services and treatments you offer?
Julie Dastiné: Within our community, we embrace various protective styles such as crochets, box braids, wigs, weaves, etc. These styles are often chosen for their convenience to minimize the time spent on hair maintenance. Unfortunately, what frequently occurs is the style that was once intended for protection turns into a style of neglect, ultimately resulting in hair loss.
We approach protective styles differently. We don’t offer any services that cause tension on the scalp, like box braids or cornrows. Instead, we want people to consider us as the place to care for their natural hair. We provide services like steam treatments, silk presses, trimming, coloring, and all of the things that make our hair a beautiful crown while prioritizing its health.
In addition to our services, we also incorporated product sales, retail, and education for our team members to ensure they are well-prepared to serve the community and feel supported in their roles.
We are currently developing bi-weekly and monthly memberships for those seeking self-care. Whether you’re a fan of protective styles or not, our goal is to eliminate the hassle of wash days. With a membership or pre-booking, your hair care becomes a worry-free routine, with Citryne Rose taking care of you. All you need to do is maintain the moisture balance and use the recommended products.
Our ultimate aim is to empower people to embrace their natural hair more often. While protective styles are enjoyable and beautiful, we want to reintroduce the tradition of consistent salon treatments while prioritizing hair health, just as it was when we were kids.
The Knockturnal: In an inviting and inclusive space like Citryne Rose, how do you consistently ensure top-notch customer service and loyalty among your clientele?
Julie Dastiné: I am the energy influencer in the room, and creating an intimate atmosphere is important to me. It’s a personal experience touching a client’s hair, so I want to make them feel comfortable and help them lower their guard with a warm smile when they walk in.
Growing into the industry when I was 19, I learned the concept of being a servant. It was humbling when I first heard it, but as I grew, I began to understand that I’m serving people, whether it be serving you with a silk press, a twist out, or simply radiating great energy.
Energy is currency. At Citryne we exchange this currency with great attitudes and by maintaining positive outlooks. Even in conflict, there must be love and understanding of everyone’s experience. My approach is grounded in empathy, considering what I would appreciate as a customer. I like being offered water, having someone assist with my bags, and feeling like I don’t have to worry about anything.
The Knockturnal: Could you share a memorable client story or moment that has inspired your passion for hair?
Julie Dastiné: When I rebranded, I had a photoshoot, and during that shoot, I created a stunning pink hairstyle for a young girl using a rod set and I also gave her a haircut. It transformed her into a beautiful chocolate fairy with a futuristic look. I loved this look a lot because it showed that black women can do whatever they want with their hair no matter their depth of complexion.
This experience fueled my imagination about the innovative possibilities for black women. Now, with the support of Redken, we have access to education that enables us to maintain our leadership in the beauty industry while continuously inspiring unique looks.
This shoot was one of the most inspiring moments in my career so far. When I’m able to create fantasy colors on natural hair or any significant transformation, it shows my range in skill. I take pride in maintaining healthy hair while giving a dope style and an impressive outcome. That’s what sets my work apart from others because it’s everything in one: creativity, hair health, and mindfulness helping you attain a beautiful shape, cut, and overall experience.
The Knockturnal: Congratulations on your exciting partnership with Redken! Can you tell me a little bit about how the partnership came about?
Julie Dastiné: Over a year ago, I was contacted by Ashley, a representative from Salon Centric, regarding Redken. We met for lunch, and she told me about the opportunities they wanted to provide through Redken. It was perfect timing for me as I was transitioning to a larger location and needed education for my staff. Having them offer education and the necessary support to be creative with their color techniques was exactly what I wanted and needed from a partnership.
To establish ourselves as leaders in Midtown specializing in textured hair and colors, the support of a professional color line felt like divine timing and fell into my lap. It’s been incredible to see how they have shown up for us by bringing in educators and providing additional training to black stylists as far as technique, chemistry, and the approach to color. My goal is to ensure that my team is knowledgeable in their approach to client consultations, explaining maintenance, and even how they explain color formulation they create for clients. It’s empowering for a stylist to know these things because it gives them a greater sense of expertise. The idea of education and investing in it and working with quality color products helps bring more professionalism to my salon.
The Knockturnal: I know you recently worked with Trevor Noah; what was that like?
Julie Dastiné: I believe Trevor Noah’s assistant was the one who discovered me and reached out. Trevor wanted his hair done, which was an awesome opportunity. I typically don’t market to men as much, so being able to service him, shape his hair, and provide guidance on the best practices for his hair has been amazing. He’s just as great in person as he appears on television and in various news outlets; He’s incredible. Today, black men aren’t just walking around with low-cut caesars and deep waves anymore so I created the option for men to get their entire hair shaped by me because barbers often focus only on the sides, neglecting the rest. I believe it’s important for black men to have a space where they can shape their entire head, in addition to getting that line-up, because it changes the whole aspect of their hair. Seeing my haircut on him at events like the Grammys and various appearances makes me feel like I did that! I aspire to attract even more A-listers and public figures to help them curate their look and raise awareness of my brand.
The Knockturnal: Last question, Do you have any exciting plans or upcoming developments you’d like to share?
Julie Dastiné: Our greatest developments involve expanding our memberships, growing our team, and enhancing the operational aspects of the business. Our goal is to empower our community and attract the funding and support needed to bring the brand to the heights I’ve envisioned.
Citryne Rose New York is located at 153 W 36th Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY, and is open weekly from Tuesday to Saturday, catering to all your hair care needs. For more information on Citryne Rose, visit CitryneRose.com or @Citrynerosenewyork on Instagram.
Dominique Thorne, a true luminary talent, made her captivating Broadway debut performance as Marie in Jaja’s African Hair Braiding. She skillfully embodies Marie, seamlessly merging comedy, insight, and sorrow in her performance. Dominique’s portrayal powerfully breathes life into the untold immigrant stories, leaving the audience in awe of her remarkable talent.
Dominique’s artistic journey can be traced back to her humble beginnings as a student at the Professional Performing Arts School and MCC Theater, where she first delved into the world of acting. Dominique’s commitment to excellence in the artistry garnered her prestigious accolades. She proudly earned the title of U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts and was the recipient of the 2015 YoungArts Award for Spoken Theater. Beyond her creative roots, it is her rich immigrant heritage from the twin islands of Trinidad and Tobago that has provided her with a unique perspective sculpting her into the multifaceted artist we witness today.
Thorne’s journey from her introductory role as Puck in A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Professional Performing Arts School to this defining breakthrough performance is evidence that this is more than just a debut. It is a homecoming and a long-anticipated full-circle moment that stands as a heartwarming testament to her deep love of theater. Today, her connection to theater and relentless pursuit of excellence continues leading her to this remarkable milestone.
Jaja’s African Hair Braiding immerses the audience into the lives of West African immigrant entrepreneurs on a hot summer day at a lively Harlem salon. The women in the shop work their magic while exchanging stories about love, harsh realities, and dreams, creating a relatable experience. This storytelling gem, written by Ghanaian-American playwright Jocelyn Bioh and directed by Obie Award winner Whitney White, effortlessly combines moments of comedy and drama with a skilled cast.
The Knockturnal had the privilege to speak with the exceptionally skilled Dominique Thorne. Our conversation delved into her exciting journey to Broadway, her pivotal role in Jaja’s African Hair Braiding, and more!
The Knockturnal: Congrats on your Broadway debut. How does it feel to be a part of the Broadway community and to represent immigrants and their stories in such a fun and purposeful way?
Dominique Thorne: Oh man, thank you, first of all. It’s such a blessing. I feel like that’s the only word that is close to touching what I feel and what all of this means to me, at this point in my life.
It also feels like… I’m feeling the weight of the responsibility of being an actor. I remember there was a period where I thought, if I’m so bold to decide I want to tell other people’s stories on screen or on the stage and if I’m going to make that commitment, I felt that should come with a certain level of humbling and a certain level of pride at the same time so you can commit yourself to doing that honestly. I think with this story, the truth of it hits so hard and hits so close to home that there’s no room to feel anything other than the responsibility to do that as truthfully as I can. So, it’s a huge blessing and it also feels like a reminder of what an honor and a privilege it is to be trusted with a story like this.
The Knockturnal: Can you tell us about your character and what she represents?
Dominique Thorne: Yes, I play Marie. She is the daughter of Ja-Ja. I would describe her as dutiful, and a force, I’d say in her own way. She’s a leader in a space that doesn’t always clear a path for her leadership but she finds a way to lead nonetheless.
I’d say in this story, she represents the story of so many immigrant children, so many first-generation children, and what it means to dream and to believe that you are worth those dreams. That you deserve to experience those dreams, and also what it means to be excellent. She shoulders such a massive burden at such a young age, and yet she does a fabulous job of being a leader in this space.
As we learn, she does a fabulous job of excelling at school and whatever her other commitments are. She’s really an excellent young child who’s striving for a future as bright as she is.
The Knockturnal: What aspects of your character do you find most intriguing or challenging to portray?
Dominique Thorne: Honestly, it’s being able to balance her energy within and amongst the energy of all the other braiders in the shop. We are truly taking a slice of life and putting it on stage for those who step into the theater and as in life, the shop is filled with so many vibrant, strong personalities.
All of which, you know, are deserving of shining as brightly as they do, but then what does it mean for this girl who’s definitely the youngest among them all to also take up space? What does it look like for her to take up space in a room like that? What does it look like for her to share this place that is really a home to the women in so many ways, in a way that conveys the familiarity and the safety that home provides the audience a sense of comfort and ease with which she can command attention or command time or make demands of the other women in a space that she also feels comfortable in.
The Knockturnal: Rehearsing for a Broadway show must be intense. Could you share any special preparation or techniques you’ve used or learned during this process?
Dominique Thorne: I would say for me, the most important thing was my vocal preparation. I was well aware that being on stage requires you to utilize your body as a holistic instrument, like the full instrument that your body is, and that’s what I love most about theater. That’s what I was most eager and excited to return to, that’s what I was longing for. I was most excited to jump into vocal readiness and go on the journey of getting back to that.
Getting back to a state where my voice is strong enough and healthy enough to do this job eight times a week for however long we’re able to run. I met with a vocal coach as soon as I moved back to New York in July.
I started training, just putting the reps in, meeting with her twice a week and waking this throat back up, waking the diaphragm back up, and titillating those vocal cords. Just really getting back into it in addition to the fabulous vocal training that was provided for us at the theater.
It’s the combination of those two vocal workouts alongside me returning to a more intentional movement of the body in my everyday life that I think really prepared me. Since I was on summer vacation, I was not doing the typical things I do when it’s time for a job.
So knowing that I was returning into work mode, getting back into regular daily yoga practice, for example, and just other ways to move my body so that my whole being is truly connected and ready for whatever the job requires.
The Knockturnal: Last question, What do you hope the audience will take away after seeing this play?
Dominique Thorne: I’d say a sense of respect, if I’m being greedy, would be my ultimate wish here. The words that we’ve been using in the rehearsal room and throughout this process, amongst the cast has been silent dignity. So either reminding or educating folks on what the demands of that type of dignity can be, what they can look like, and what it requires to lead your life with that type of dignity but also to do it silently without claims for attention or anything like that.
And that, when people learn about the reality of so many people here in the city, the reality of so many folks who provide a service for us here in the city. What it can look like and what it must feel like to really step into their lives, to humanize them for those who struggle with that.
I think also just to give a sense of encouragement for those who are ultimately familiar with that, those for whom I believe this story is written, so they are given a moment of recognition to say, “Hey, look, we see you, we love you, we are inspired by you, you are worthy of respect, you are the boss that you desire to be, you are that already”
Really again, the ultimate wish is that people can walk away from this, knowing that the city is only as vibrant as it is because of the people who come here to make it that. That’s always been what has made New York special. It’s a melting pot or a salad bowl of so many different cultures. There’s an endless amount of ethnic enclaves to find in the city.
And within each of them and across all of them, this story is so true and it’s so central for many of them. It’s a little bit of a reminder when folks leave the theater and they step back out into the city streets, that this is a group effort. Everyone who’s coming together to make this city what it is is deserving of love, respect, and empathy, which I no doubt believe many folks who watch the show want to give to the characters.
Jaja’s African Hair Braiding is currently open for previews ahead of its October 3rd opening night at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre until November 5. Click here for tickets!
UPDATE: The run of Jaja’s African Hair Braiding has been extended for a second time, making the new closing date November 19. Click here for tickets!
The vibrant energy of proud New Yorkers permeated every corner of the Timberland Stoop event on Saturday, September 23rd, in a Brooklyn warehouse at 267 Kent Avenue.
This gathering was a dual celebration like no other, commemorating Timberland’s 50th anniversary and the birth of hip-hop, both deeply intertwined with the essence of New York City. Timberland crafted the ultimate New York experience, fostering a sense of connection among New Yorkers and their beloved neighborhoods.
The event was a blend of fashion, music, and creativity, all centered on the iconic NY boot. Timberland placed a strong emphasis on community, boldness, and fun, transforming a compact 380+ square foot space into a lively, fully stocked bodega. The attention to detail was remarkable, from a cat sporting Tims inside the bodega to pigeons perched above, proudly flaunting their pair of butter boots. Timberland reintroduced their Classic 8-inch Waterproof Super Boot, initially introduced in 1979 as the “40 Below” Boot. These limited-release boots were only available at the Timberland Stoop and will make appearances at all Timberland Stoop locations.
Beyond the Timberland world, the event featured a workshop by creator Phillip Leyesa, showcasing the art of distressing. Besides this, there was a customized Timberland station at the Brooklyn pop-up offering personalized boot designs and shirts, complete with pins, patches, and vinyl designs by Taylor Simmons. It was an interactive and memorable experience, and we even customized our pair, adding to the fun.
The infectious playlist, courtesy of DJ Atelye Marc, set the stage for electrifying live performances by none other than NYC native rappers Dave East and Fabulous, who took the stage by storm, paying homage to hip-hop and Timberland’s impactful legacy.
Food and beverages, including soft drinks and mouth-watering plant-based patties from Seed Brooklyn, kept attendees energized as they danced and vibed the night away. Timberland’s Stoop tour experience will continue, with planned stops in various locations around Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx.
On Saturday, June 10th “The Fourth Wall” directed by Luke Meyer premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival. The ten-year in the making documentary is a character-driven piece following the story of the Sullivanians, who created a secret psychotherapy sex cult hidden in the heart of Manhattan’s Upper West Side in the 1970s and 80s.
On Saturday, June 10th, the “Smoking Tigers” cast presented by AT&T Untold Stories joined a talkback following the film’s screening. The talkback discussed the casting, raw emotions and moments in the script, and experience working as an emblemed cast.