When anyone mentions the musical, Hair , there are very few 40-and-over-somethings who don't respond with a knowing nod and a smile. Even those who never saw an actual staged production have heard the music and can sing along whenever the "oldie" radio stations play numbers from the score -- who has never heard "Aquarius" or "Let the Sun Shine In"?

Northern Illinois University 's School of Theatre and Dance musters student actors, singers, dancers and musicians to present Hair , the musical that will bring the essence of turbulent 1960s hippie counter-culture back to life on October 23.

This self-proclaimed “tribal love musical” takes place in 1968, Greenwich Village , when the Vietnam War was in full swing. The war had become a focal point and a backdrop to some of the most dramatic and sweeping changes in the way Americans viewed themselves and their history. Hair was not only a youthful protest over the war but it also gave voice to a new generation's rejection of racism, discrimination, violence, sexual repression, pollution and all the double standards that seemed to exist under a Constitution that guaranteed certain inalienable rights. The production itself rejects every convention of the traditional musical theatre with respect to plot, lyrics and the use of words, and how musical numbers begin and end.

Choreographer director Paula Frasz and musical director Peter Lipari have put together a“high energy production," according to one the dance performer, Nicole Musich. "Music and dance lovers alike will enjoy this performance," she says, “I could pass out by the fifth number.” Kate Matteson, also a performer and dance captain for the production, agrees.“This show is going to rock! I'm thrilled to be a part of it.”

Frasz, Northern Illinois University School of Theatre and Dance faculty and the co-founder of Danceloop Chicago, says, “It's interesting to work with these students on the production because the drug culture, free love—it's all new to these students.” Frasz describes Hair as “a lot of dance, and a lot of movement. There are forty dance numbers, and they carry the plot, so we keep it interesting. The actors climb on scaffolds, jump on trampolines, hang from bungee cords, roller skate, and fly like Peter Pan. "And we are remaining true to the original script," she continues with a smile, "which means, yes, indeed, there will be a nude scene, four-letter language, and lyrics about sex."

Hair will be performed October 23-26 and October 30-November 2 at 7:30 p.m. on weeknights and Saturdays, and 2:00 p.m. on Sundays at the O'Connell Theatre, located in the Stevens Building on the NIU campus. For tickets, reservations, or information call the Box Office at (815) 753-1600 Monday through Friday between 12-4 p.m.

The School advises that this show is R-rated. No children under the age of 17 are allowed without a parent or guardian.
Tickets are $14.00 for general admission, $8.00 for seniors, and $7.00 for students. Group rates are available.