The Cast of the Rock Musical Hair: Who Sang the Song 'Hair'?
As the sixties were a time of great musical and cultural upheaval, many classic rock musicals were born during this era. One such iconic work is the rock musical 'Hair,' which captures the spirit of the times. I vividly remember the opening line, 'Give me a head with hair, give me a head made of clay...,' from this exhilarating production. But when it comes to the question, 'Who sang the song 'Hair' in the musical movie version of the same name?', the answer can be a bit challenging to pinpoint accurately.
Overview of 'Hair'
Set in 1969 New York City, 'Hair' is a rock musical that tells the story of a diverse group of counter-culture youth, collectively referred to as the 'Tribe.' These young individuals live together and participate in communal activities, often challenging traditional norms and societal expectations. The musical explores themes of free love, anti-war protests, and social rebellion.
The Plot and Key Scenes
The plot of 'Hair' unfolds with Claude (played by Christopher Isherwood) returning from a physical examination for the Army. His friends, Berger and Hud, are concerned about his draft status and try to come up with a plan to help him avoid enlistment. Unfortunately, Claude's attempt to burn his draft card backfires when the Tribe discovers it's actually his library card. This leads to a series of plot twists as the characters navigate their different paths and beliefs.
During a conversation with a woman and her husband, who are tourists in a land of hippies, the Tribe performs a song entitled 'Hair.' The following scene, 'My Conviction,' highlights the woman's revelation of being a transvestite, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative of self-expression and acceptance.
The Cast and Their Contributions
The 1979 film adaptation of 'Hair' featured a talented ensemble cast, each bringing their unique talents to the stage. While it's difficult to attribute the singing of 'Hair' to a specific actor, the entire cast was instrumental in bringing this dynamic production to life. Some notable performers include Orrin Nettles, who played Claude, and Glenn Goetzman, who played Berger. These actors, along with others, contributed to the energetic and soulful performances throughout the musical.
Behind the Scenes
It's worth noting that the production of 'Hair' involved a collaborative effort from the entire cast. The lead actors, as well as supporting characters, all contributed to the success of the musical. The cast's ability to connect emotionally with the material and deliver powerful performances helped to make 'Hair' a memorable part of the sixties' cultural landscape.
'Hair' is not just a story about individual characters; it's a reflection of a generation's journey and the music that resonated during that time. The iconic song 'Hair' symbolized the collective voice of the Tribe and served as a clarion call for personal freedom and self-expression.
Conclusion
While it may be tough to point to a single actor who sang 'Hair,' the entire cast of the rock musical 'Hair' deserves recognition for their contributions. Their collective effort in bringing this powerful and relevant story to life made 'Hair' a timeless piece of musical theater. If you're a fan of the sixties' cultural movement or simply intrigued by the story behind 'Hair,' this production is a must-watch!