The Evolution of Hair: A Journey Through Time
I am too young to have seen Hair during its first performance, but my connection to the show stems from the experience of one of its playwrights, James Rado, who was a graduate of the University of Maryland. The early attempt to stage Hair at the university did not receive the administration's approval, primarily due to the controversial subject matter and nudity. James Rado, a steadfast figure unyielding to censorship, ensured the play did not come to Maryland.
Over a decade later, with a more liberal attitude towards theater productions, the University of Maryland embraced Rado. This long-delayed production, uncensored, took place at the university, a significant milestone both for Rado and for my personal experience. I remember the excitement and anticipation as I watched the musical for the first time. The setting was the University of Maryland, with Rado himself in attendance, making it a memorable event.
From University to Broadway
While I was introduced to Hair through university productions, the musical's influence extended far beyond campus boundaries. A member of our church group, Liberal Religious Youth, proposed seeing the show at a Cheetah nightclub. Although we didn't make it in time, it was clear that the show's appeal and impact were not limited to traditional theater settings.
The opportunity to see Hair on Broadway came much later, in approximately 1971. By then, the lyrics were already a part of my musical repertoire. My experience was unique due to a very vocal audience member in the fourth row center, who sang along with most of the songs. Post-performance, my date and I returned to her aunt’s apartment in Manhattan, where we engaged in a lively discussion about the show. The aunt's curiosity about a specific lyric, cunnilingus, highlighted the controversial nature of the play, which was different from its reception on campus years earlier.
Return to the Stages of the Past
A few years ago, I saw Hair again, this time at a smaller theater. It was more of a nostalgic experience than a thrilling one. This time, the show felt more familiar, with the audience more prepared to handle its content.
The recent viewing of the movie All the Way, which narrates President Lyndon B. Johnson's presidency, brought back memories of the Hair lyrics:
tLBJ took the IRT
tDown to 4th Street USA.
tWhen he got there
tWhat did he see
tThe youth of America on LSD.
These lyrics resonate deeply with the historical context, reflecting the cultural upheaval and changes of the 1960s.
Through these different experiences, Hair continues to evolve, influencing and engaging audiences in various settings, from university productions to Broadway and beyond. The musical’s journey is a testament to its enduring relevance and the impact it had on American culture.