Playhouse on Park in West Hartford presents HAIR beginning June 10.

The HAIR ensemble captured as they finish a number in rehearsal. Submitted photo

Submitted by Playhouse on Park

Playhouse on Park will close out its fabulous sixth season beginning June 10 with Tony-award winning HAIR, a worldview-shattering musical that, upon its initial premiere, delivered social commentary with a punch that remains relevant to this day.

With book and lyrics by Gerome Ragni and James Rado, their work presents itself as a rock musical alive with timeless vitality. Original music by Galt McDermot include titillating numbers such as Aquarius, I Believe In Love, and Good Morning Starshine, which promise to evoke memories for all who lived through the exciting time that was post mid-century America.

Ryan Connolly defies gravity with the ensemble cast in rehearsal. Submitted photo

The Playhouse is also thrilled to host its largest ensemble cast yet! Leading the tribe of free spirits is Playhouse on Park’s very own co-artistic directors. Sean Harris (Director) is the co-founder of Playhouse on Park, where he has directed ANGELS IN AMERICA, OF MICE AND MEN, METAMORPHOSES, and CABARET. Darlene Zoller (Choreographer) is the co-founder of Playhouse on Park where she has directed and choreographed CHICAGO, SWINGING ON A STAR and CABARET. Music Direction by Playhouse veteran music directors, Colin Britt and Emmett Drake.

Featured in this production are: Ryan Connolly (Japanese tour of RENT; National tour of IF THIS HAT COULD TALK; Regional: SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD) as Berger, Tara Novie (The Gallery Players: Mimi RENT; The Eagle Theatre: Susan TICK, TICK…BOOM!; New York: Karen O’s STOP THE VIRGENS; Weathervane Theatre) as Sheila, and Michael Jayne Walker (Totem Pole Playhouse: Jesus GODSPELL; Nat’l Tours: SOUTH PACIFIC; WE THE PEOPLE) as Claude.

Kameren Chase Neal as Hud in rehearsal. Submitted photo

Also featured in this production are: Kevin Barlowski as Woof, Kristen Jeter as Dionne, Jessie MacBeth as Jeanie, Kameren Chase Neal as Hud, Lauren Monteleone as Crissy, and Jose Plaza as Margaret Mead. The tribe ensemble includes: Courtney Rada, Peej Mele, Matt Magrath, Alejandra Lopez, Oludare Bernard, Emily Elizabeth Jones, Karissa Harris, Kelsey Flynn, Mallory Cunningham, Dalton Bertolone, and Mary Berthelsen.

In addition to these amazing performances, audience members are given the opportunity to join in making music with two Open Mic Nights. Set for June 20 and July 18, these events are free and open to the public. The merriment begins after the performances, and an accompanist will be provided.

HAIR runs from June 10-July 19. Opening night is set for Friday, June 12 with a wine and cheese reception before the performance. Each Sunday matinee performance is followed by a talk back question and answer session between audience members and the cast.

All seats reserved, with ticket prices ranging from $15-$45. Ticket sales are already strong, so secure yours today by calling the Playhouse box office at 860-523-5900 x10, or visit www.playhouseonpark.org.

Due to strong language, nudity, and drug use, HAIR is recommended for ages 16 and up.