UK Theatre Changes Season Musical to 'Hair'
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 30, 2014) — The University of Kentucky Department of Theatre and Dance will be closing its season with the quintessential “hippie” musical “Hair,” April 16-26, 2015, at the Guignol Theatre. “Hair” will replace the department’s originally scheduled production of “Cabaret.” The decision to change programs follows news that another local theatre will present a production of “Cabaret” in January of 2015.
“We are dedicated to the best theatre education possible for our students and hope to ensure that through all our classes and programming,” said Nancy Jones, chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance. “We strive to make choices that support our students’ education and community engagement. We want to always do the right thing, and we have a mission to support other arts organizations in the community.”
“Hair” is a rock musical that tells the story of politically active young people living a bohemian life in New York City’s East Village in the 1960s. This “tribe” fights against the Vietnam War, questions authority and seeks freedom of expression. The musical opened off Broadway in 1967 and has since been presented around the world and on film. The Broadway revival won the Tony and Drama Desk Award in 2009.
Jones said “Hair” will be inclusive, pertinent and enlightening for participants and audience members alike.
The production will be directed by Russell Henderson, associate professor of theatre acting and voice, and choreographed by Susie Thiel, director of UK Dance Program.
Tickets to “Hair” are $20 for general admission and $15 for UK students with a valid ID through the Singletary Center Box Office. To purchase tickets, contact the box office at 859-257-4929, visit online at www.scfatickets.com or purchase in person during operating hours.
The UK Department of Theatre at UK College of Fine Arts has played an active role in the performance scene in Central Kentucky for more than 100 years. Students in the program get hands-on training and one-on-one mentorship from a renowned professional theatre faculty. The liberal arts focus of their bachelor's degree program is coupled with ongoing career counseling to ensure a successful transition from campus to professional life.
MEDIA CONTACT: Whitney Hale, 859-257-8716; whitney.hale@uky.edu