‘I wasn’t here at the time but apparently they were thrilled because it’s such an iconic piece of theatre, let alone music theatre,’ director and choreographer Tanya Mitford said.
Based in Sydney, Mitford is no stranger to travelling west to be at the helm of a WAAPA production ” she was last here in 2012 for Into the Woods ” and said each invitation was a ‘no brainer’.
‘The students are so enthusiastic and hungry to develop their skills and progress further in the industry,’ she said.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOW‘I love being able to challenge them by putting the pie in the sky and seeing how far they can get.’
The 20-strong cast will bring the age of Aquarius to Geoff Gibbs Theatre this week when the production about searching for truth, peace and love during Vietnam War-era America opens on March 15.
Mitford said the show’s music, including classics Good Morning Starshine and title song Hair, provided a snapshot of the period and acted as the main access point for audiences.
‘We don’t want people to sit and passively watch, we want them to experience the time and for a lot of audience members reminisce what life was like.
‘Hopefully that’s an enjoyable experience for them and one that will reinspire thought and acknowledge the advances we’ve made. We of a younger generation have a lot to thank that generation for.’
Hair runs until March 22. Tickets are available at waapa.ecu.edu.au.