HAIR follows a young group of friends fighting the establishment, living, and loving in New York City in 1967 under the shadow of the Vietnam War.
Claude (Nicholas Querino), his best friend Berger (Konner Metcalf), their roommate Sheila (Lexi Ann Cole), and their “tribe” of friends struggle to balance the demands of the harsh and violent world with their dream for a more beautiful and peaceful existence. When Claude receives his draft notice, he must decide whether to join his friends in resistance or bow to the pressures of society and his conservative parents, thereby sacrificing his morals and, possibly, his life.
Lauded as “the show that defined a generation” when it was first produced at The Public Theatre in 1967—later transferring to Broadway’s Biltmore Theatre in 1968—HAIR was revolutionary in acknowledging concerns of its time, bringing the counterculture onto the stage and into the national spotlight. HAIR received the 1969 Grammy Award for Best Musical Score.
The themes HAIR explores—racism, war, social unrest, pollution, LGBTQ+ inclusion, sexual repression, economic disparity—are those that we continue to grapple with today. Retrospectively, HAIR is a prescient commentary on the present through the lens of the past. In this way, Bay Street Players continues its dedication to acknowledging the fact that the stories we are able to share have the potential to impact social evolution. Join us in our effort to “let the sunshine in!”
Avg. Running Time: 2.5 hours, including intermission
Rating: R, 18+
HAIR contains brief nudity, mature themes, and strong language. There is use of herbal cigarettes, strobe lights, and incense throughout the production. Viewer discretion advised.
This production of HAIR is presented by special arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC.
Photos by Andrea Cates. Courtesy Bay Street Players at the historic State Theatre.