LCC’s latest is “a wild ride” as Director, John Lennox tells us. It is, indeed, wild, yet has quiet, soulful moments — with actors filtering through the audience inviting us to feel part of “the tribe.” Projections of news photos from the 60’s and the Vietnam war (Julian Hendrickson) added historic context to the simple set, with Jeff English and his excellent combo onstage. Choreographer Lauren Mudry created some evocative human sculptures onstage.
HAIR is a chaotic piece, raising issues of anti-war, free love, sex, drugs, enlightenment, self discovery, freedom, and brave hopes/illusions of the possibility of an “Age of Aquarius” complete with “harmony and understanding, sympathy and trust abounding…”
Profanity, depicting illegal drugs, sexuality, irreverence for the American flag, and its nude scene were controversial when it first came out. In the current era of extra sensitivity to potential sexual harassment/obligation, director Lennox opted not to include the nude scene — (which I imagine was a publicity stunt, when the show was first staged in the 60s.) Frankly, I didn’t miss it. You may want to read the director’s comments in Bridgette Redman’s interview in the State Journal.
https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/entertainment/arts/2018/11/01/lcc-students-find-hair-still-groovy/38328329/
Boris Nikolovski was outstanding as Berger; his loincloth scenes made up for the lack of general nude scene. Myles Jones gave us an amazing voice as “Woof” - Keeley Robinson is a promising new face as “Sheila" trying to make sense of the contradictions of “free” love. Max Frutig was engaging as Claude, struggling with his draft status. Group songs were impressive.
How much have we learned/not learned since the Vietnam/Hippie era? Not sure… but this “wild ride” is nostalgic and thought provoking.
Hair continues through November 11. General Seating/Dart Auditorium.