Hair

        It's the summer of love on Broadway! At least it has been since the beginning of July, and will continue to be until the 10th of September. The national touring company of the recent Broadway revival of Hair has let it's luscious locks down at The St. James theater.

       This was the third time I saw this particular production, and each time with a different cast. Even after being nearly four years old, the production still holds up extremely well. Our country is still embroiled in two wars, albeit wars that are supposedly close to their end. Hair is a period piece that makes you think about the world as we know it today. It's not just a musical, it's a movement.

      Diane Paulus's stunning direction and Carole Armitages magnetic choreography are woven together to create a beautiful tapestry of theatrical art. Equally ensconced in this tapestry are the wonderful costumes, set, and lighting design. And let's not forget all that long beautiful hair! There are a few wigs, but most of the cast is sporting their own shining, steaming, gleaming hair.

     The staging that is being seen on Broadway now is not exactly the same as what was seen at The Hershfeld theater. It has been slightly altered for middle America. The act I finale in particular has been toned down just in the slightest bit. It's still the act I finale of Hair it's just not quite as in your face as it was in New York. There have also been a few changes to the book. A bit more of the original libretto that had been previously cut has be re-instated.

   The Tribe that has taken over The St. James is absolutely a complete joy to watch. Steel Burkhart as Berger (though perhaps a little too old) and Paris Remilard bring their own spin to the two lead male roles. Paris Remilard in particular is able to inhabit both Claude's innate sense of pleasure and also his sense of morality. The juxtaposition is fantastic to watch. The women don't fare quite as well as the men, but I doubt that you would find much fault if any.

   The Broadway stop over is almost ready to move along, so if you're in New York you have one more week. This production is still scheduled to make several more stops across the USA before packing it in altogether though, so look for it coming to a theater near you!