Barber Shop Chronicles

Part therapist’s office, part gathering space, buzzing barbershops inspire Inua Ellams’ new play, Barber Shop Chronicles, co-produced by Fuel, National Theatre and West Yorkshire Playhouse. Ellams, a native Nigerian who now calls London home, combed barbershops in Ghana, South Africa, Uganda and Zimbabwe—eavesdropping on and transcribing conversations to breathe vivid life into his 30 characters. With scenes interspersed with African music and dance, the work cuts from London to across Africa, portraying unguarded moments where African men banter about sports and politics and confide their deepest doubts. Cut to the chase when Barber Shop Chronicles, presented by American Repertory Theater, continues its U.S. premiere tour at the Loeb Drama Center through Jan. 5. / Nathan Tavares

Barber Shop Chronicles Loeb Drama Center, 64 Brattle St., Cambridge (617-547-8300) amrep.org. MBTA: Red Line to Harvard. Through Jan. 5. $35-$75. See website for complete details. 

Photo: Tim Trumble