MAECHI AHARANWA

Maechi Aharanwa is a proud native of New York City. She is a Princess Grace Award recipient, having been honored with the Gant Gaither Theatre Fellowship.

 

Presently, Aharanwa graces the Broadway stage in the critically acclaimed play "Jaja’s African Hair Braiding," written by Jocelyn Bioh, which is set in a Harlem braiding salon. In her role as "Ndidi," she brings a unique blend of love, dreams, and secrets to life.

 

Beyond this stellar performance, Aharanwa has left her mark on a diverse array of performances. Her credits include remarkable roles in “The Misanthrope” (Celemine), “The Moutaintop” (Camae), “Sweet” (Retha), “Julius Caesar”(Cassius), and “Joe Turner's Come and Gone” (Martha). Her television credits include: “Elementary” (CBS), “30 Rock” (NBC), “Show Me A Hero” (HBO), and “Person of Interest” (CBS).

 

Aharanwa’s journey towards excellence began with her studies at Temple University, where she majored in Theatre and African-American Studies, followed by study at Circle in the Square Theatre School.

 

Aharanwa's pursuit of excellence continued and led her to The Juilliard School Drama Division, where she refined her skills and graduated with honors.

 

During her time at Juilliard, she received the Drama Division's John Houseman Prize for her exceptional prowess in classical theater. Her commitment to the arts was further acknowledged when she was presented with the Joseph W. Polisi Artist as Citizen Award at her graduation.

 

Aharanwa's dedication to education is further demonstrated by her work as a teaching artist for several organizations and schools, including the Harlem School of the Arts, The Open Eye Theater, ASTEP, IRC, New York City Public Schools, the Barbados Dance Project, and having served as the director of Project Classics at the Classical Theatre of Harlem.  Her private acting coaching also reflects her commitment to fostering the talent of aspiring artists.

 

When Aharanwa isn't gracing the stage or teaching the next generation of artists, she's channeling her creativity into her growing Lifestyle Brand, PinMe 1913. For more information about PinMe 1913, please visit www.pinme1913.com.

 

In every facet of her life, Maechi Aharanwa is a true embodiment of excellence, a beacon of inspiration in the world of performing arts, and a dedicated advocate for the transformative power of the stage.