Fifty years ago, the musical Hair first appeared on stage, and fifty years on we are in the golden age of flower power, hippies, peace not war, drugs, and Vietnam, through this superb tribal love-rock musical.
Phtoto Credit: Johan Persson
It is the time of young people living out their unrealistic, expectations of a life of free love, music, and drug induced euphoria convincingly portrayed by a multi-talented cast.
Berger, played by Jack Quickenden, exposed us (and him) to the extremes of hippy culture by pushing the boundaries and feelings of his peers. His sensuality and agility did not overshadow his powerful singing. Natalie Green, playing Cassie, is a presence on stage throughout, her passionate voice bringing pathos to every song. Claude, whose conscience overrode his desires to live this alternative lifestyle by fighting for his country, is also convincingly played by Paul Wilkins.
The vibrancy of the whole production is set and maintained by the unquestionable musicality and talent of the on stage musicians, who play the familiar tracks, ‘Aquarius’, ‘I Got Life’, ‘Good Morning Starshine’ and ‘Let the Sun Shine In’. The one-set staging maintains its authenticity and interest throughout thanks to the talent and skill of the lighting designer.
Even though this reflects a snap shot in time of 50 years ago it presents issues that are still contentious today. A lively enthusiastic talented musical that still shocks but is definitely of its era.
Hair The Musical is touring the country until August 2019.
