Letting It All Hang Down: "Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical"

In the 1960s, the growth of long, untamed hair became a potent symbol of dissent against authority, particularly in opposition to conscription and military conflict – a stark visual contrast to the conventional military haircut. This development occurred within a broader context of rebellion against established cultural and social norms, as well as attitudes towards sexuality and drug use. When combined with innovative approaches to stagecraft that challenged traditional theatrical structures and conventions, the result was "Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical," considered the first popular concept musical.

The lyrics for this groundbreaking work were penned by actor-writers Gerome Ragni, who brought a background in musical revues with a Broadway flavour, and James Rado, who had an experimental theatre background. They immersed themselves in the authentic "hippie" subculture on the streets beginning in 1965, even growing their own hair long to gather genuine source material. Ragni's participation in The Open Theater's 1966 production of Megan Terry's play (the first US rock musical) "Viet Rock," which explored the experiences of young men being deployed to the Vietnam War, served as a key inspiration for the ground-breaking elements within "Hair," such as actors assuming multiple roles and audience interaction.

Ragni, MacDermot and Rado 1968

The music was composed by Canadian-born Galt MacDermot, who initially had little familiarity with the hippie movement. Notably, prior to "Hair," MacDermot had already received two Grammy Awards in 1961 for Best Instrumental Composition and Best Original Jazz Composition for his "African Waltz," recorded by Cannonball Adderley.

While "Hair" centred on themes of anti-Vietnam War sentiment and general non-conformity within a community of hippies living in New York during the late 1960s, presented through loosely connected sketches and songs, it lacked a conventional narrative plot. Despite this unconventional structure, as well as its provocative use of profanity, irreverence towards American institutions, and brief instances of nudity (as permitted by NY City regulations), "Hair" achieved significant musical success. It was awarded a Grammy in 1969 for best score from an original cast show album, and numerous cover versions of its songs, including the anthemic "Aquarius/Let The Sun Shine In," reached the top ten charts.

Some audience participation is anticipated when Second-Wind Ensemble celebrates “The Summer of Love” on Sunday 18 May at 3pm in the Latvian Hall. Get your tickets before they’re sold out! Go to TryBooking.