Hair-raising performance in Paris
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When it premiered on Broadway 40 years ago, the musical Hair raised more than a few eyebrows. Now an updated version has been premiered in Paris, with striking sets and updated choreography.
It was the open references to sex, drugs and the Vietnam war that shocked American audiences when Hair first opened in the US.
But the hit musical is enjoying an unexpected revival as a new production breathes life into classic tunes. This new version draws comparisons between the 1968 riots in France, and what was happening on the other side of the Atlantic.
Listen to a report by Judith Prescott:
Bulgaria
Of course, Hair has been written as a reaction to the atrocities of the Vietnam war in the sixties. Love, peace, and sex were the three key words. In the contemporary time, the attitude of the hippies was shocking. Neverthless, the message came across. The fact that 'Hair' still is being performed, indicates the power that its story seems to have. That the theme can even be extented to current time, only adds to that.
It is no wonder that at this moment in time 'Hair' is being readapted on stage. With all the concerns of the economic crisis, we are looking for amusement. If this equally brings a critique on society, so much the better.
It is without a doubt that 'Hair' is still relevant to this day. Uneasiness with the world's violence has been a major issue in the Paris students' riots, and might still become one if the wars in Gaza and Afghanistan will continue to last (just as they seem to do).
Heck, me as a student, I might join the cast of 'Hair' to have my voice heard just as well! Although perhaps I would not go 'full monty' in order to do so...
