This past weekend, my daughters and I had the opportunity to see The Hula-Hoopin' Queen, the charming and playful new children's production at Imagination Stage. The show is about Kameeka, a young girl living on 139th Street in Harlem, who, along with her friends Jamara and Portia, has a serious hula-hoopin' itch. Hoopin' is all the girls can think about and all that they want to do from sun up to sun down. This becomes a problem when Kameeka gets wrapped up in a competition to crown the true Hula-Hoopin' Queen of the block and forgets all about her promise to help set up a beloved neighbor's birthday party.
 The company of The Hula-Hoopin’ Queen celebrates Miz Adeline’s birthday in The Hula-Hoopin’ Queen. |
At its heart, this is a story about the relationships that are important to us: friends, parents, and community. The all African-American, all female cast bring the story to life with humor and authentic love. The rivalry between Kameeka (Kalen Robinson) and Jamara (Renee Elizabeth Wilson) feels like a real schoolgirl clash. Kameeka's mother (played by Jasmine Joy) is tough but forgiving, and her devotion to her on-stage daughter radiates.
 (L-R) Jasmine Joy and Kalen Robinson make Miz Adeline’s birthday cake in The Hula-Hoopin’ Queen. |
Miz Evelyn (Deidra LaWan Starnes) and Miz Adeline (Tamieka Chavis) are fantastic as the wise elders of 139th street, bringing sage advice but also a whimsical spirit to the life lessons taught on the the block. And let's not forget the fact that a few of these actors spend at least half of the show hula-hooping! Get ready because you and your children will definitely leave with a hula-hoopin' itch of your own!
 (L-R) Tamieka Chavis and Kalen Robinson in The Hula-Hoopin’ Queen. |
This play is based on the book of the same name by Thelma Lynne Godin. It is always great for kids to read a book before seeing a show to help with context, and there is a read aloud of this one by Oprah Winfrey available on StorylineOnline. Imagination Stage recommends the show for ages 5 and older. The play runs from now until April 14.
There is a Certifikid deal for 20% off select tickets. Use code CERTIFIKIDHULA to get the discount when you order!
