Rehearsal for “Hair” underway
by Karrianne Carter
edited by Alicia Baldino
In the Warehouse Theater, 17 students are rehearsing for the upcoming spring play, Hair: The Great American Tribal Love-Rock Musical on a set of unique design.
(Photo: Karrianne Carter)
Rehearsal started at 6:30 p.m. and is expected to run for a few hours. The plan for the night is to run through both acts of the play. The first act is estimated to be about one hour, while the second act is a little shorter.
“Right now, we are doing short pieces we need to work on before the actual run-through,” said director Nancy Stone who is a theater professor. She sat in front of the actors and quietly observed their rehearsal.
The play takes place during the Vietnam War in Bohemian New York City. It tells the story about a tribe of Hippies that are fighting conservative America and the war. One member of the group must choose between his peace-loving friends and his own beliefs, or succumbing to the government by enlisting.
At 7:30 p.m., the actors were led by choreographer, Professor Wendy Dwyer.
“Move those hips!” yelled Dwyer over the music, “Get those knees up!”
(Photo: Karrianne Carter)
Dwyer worked with the students on their placement during the song, “Going Down.” They arranged themselves and practiced several times until Dwyer decided it was time to add the music. Simultaneously, the stage crew was working on different tasks.
Stage Manager Sarah Asbury and Assistant Stage Manager Kayla Pendleton helped with running the music and gathering props.
Around 8 p.m., everyone took a short break for water and fresh air. There’s a mix of laughter and questions with the director resounding in the theater. Some sit on the sides checking their cell phones, while others take advantage of the break to step outside.
The actual performances will be held on Wednesday, April 11 through Saturday, April 14 at 7:30 p.m. There will be additional performances at 2:00 p.m. on April 14 and Sunday, April 15 as well.
