The UM Department of Theatre will present a production of 1960s rock musical “Hair” Nov. 16-20 at 7:30 p.m., and Nov. 19 at 2 p.m. in Reynolds Studio Theatre.
“It has been exciting revisiting ‘Hair,’ which I last directed at UM in the fall of 2008. We have worked hard to craft a fresh production,” said Dr. David Callaghan, the show’s director and the chair of the Department of Theatre.
The show features musical direction by Theatre Accompanist Jennifer Hartsell and choreography by UM alumnus and guest artist Carl Dean.
Inspired by the counter-culture movement of the 1960s, “Hair” tells the story of the Tribe, a group of young hippies navigating the decade’s turbulent political and cultural events while living a bohemian lifestyle in New York City.
Student David Pohler, who plays a member of the Tribe, said the cast had regular discussions of what the show meant to them during the rehearsal process.
“Something really rewarding in theatre is when we can put a mirror up to our audiences about what’s happening around us in our world and our communities,” said Pohler. “I couldn’t think of another show that currently does that with such relevance.”
Groundbreaking at the time for its music, script and unique production flourishes, “Hair” was nominated at the 1969 Tony Award for Best Musical and won a Grammy the same year for Best Score from an Original Cast Show Album.
“Sharing this journey and experience with some of the most talented individuals on this campus has been a true joy and highlight of my semester,” said student Marcus Moore, who plays Tribe member, Hud. “I absolutely cannot wait to open the show, and send a powerful message to our audience through this production.”
Tickets for UM’s production of “Hair” are $20. They can be purchased at the University’s online box office or by cash, check and credit card at the door of the show if available.
Audience discretion is advised due to the production’s extremely adult content.