#164- Unlocking Freedom Through Hair: Leandra's Story

Hey y’all, what’s up? This week we're throwing it back to my 2021 chat with my fabulous friend, Leandra Ellis-Gaston. We talked about her incredible journey to unlocking freedom through hair! You won't believe how a bold haircut transformed her career, leading her to take Broadway by storm as the dance captain in "Tina: The Tina Turner Musical." Ever wonder what it's like to balance the magic of Broadway while embracing your own natural beauty? Leandra shares her personal stories, from her debut to her show-stopping hairstyles, and the empowering decision to do the big chop. We dive deep into how letting go can lead to self-discovery, confidence, and unexpected opportunities. Leandria is currently on the road, playing Sugar, in the North American Tour of "Some Like It Hot."Hit subscribe and come on the ride as we explore the intersection of performance, identity, and self-care, with a sprinkle of Broadway magic. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that might just inspire your next big change!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Leandra Ellis-Gaston02:20 - The Big Chop: Natural Hair Journey09:54 - What’s Next for Your Hair: Care Tips17:34 - How to Maintain Your Braids: Best Practices19:45 - Hair Products for Natural Hair: Recommendations25:09 - Wig Prep for Tina: Styling Tips28:11 - Importance of Hair Representation in Theatre31:10 - Leandra’s Experience as Dance Captain for Tina34:25 - The Week Broadway Shut Down: Impact on Theatre37:13 - Colorism in the Industry: Challenges and Insights44:31 - Colorism: Continued Discussion45:52 - Leandra’s Tina Audition: Behind the Scenes49:50 - What Agency is She With: Representation Matters50:15 - Leandra’s Thoughts on the Fashion Industry50:16 - OutroLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesYou can send fan mail here!@salishathomas @thesalishashow, www.thesalishashow.comMany thanks to Gotham Network in NYC, TyNia Brandon for writing and laying vocals down for the updated theme song and Big Red Studios for the intro video wherever you watch the latest season of The Salisha Show!