HAIR The Musical – The Iconic 60s Tribal Love-Rock Musical Returns

The legendary tribal love-rock musical phenomenon, HAIR: The Musical, has returned to Melbourne with a bold new production of the Grammy and Tony Award-winning classic. Playing at the Athenaeum Theatre from 25 October to 30 November 2025, this limited-season revival reimagines one of the most influential and groundbreaking musicals in theatre history.

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A Story of Freedom, Love and Resistance

Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and the social revolution of the late 1960s, HAIR: The Musical captures the spirit of a generation fighting for peace, love and freedom. The story follows a tribe of young hippies living in New York City who reject conformity and embrace self-expression, challenging the norms of a divided society.

At the heart of the story is Claude (Alex Cooper), a young man torn between his duty to his conservative parents and his deep opposition to the war. When he is drafted to fight, Claude must decide whether to obey the expectations of society or stay true to his beliefs. His journey, and his connection with fellow free spirits Berger (Maxwell Simon), Sheila (Elizabeth Brennan), and the rest of the tribe, explores identity, rebellion, and the personal cost of standing up for freedom.

With unforgettable hits such as “Aquarius,” “Good Morning Starshine,” “I Got Life,” and “Let the Sunshine In,” this musical blends raw emotion with rock-infused energy, capturing the optimism, defiance and creativity of the 60s counterculture movement.

A Groundbreaking Musical Legacy

When HAIR premiered off-Broadway in 1967, it sparked a cultural revolution. It was unlike anything audiences had seen before — unapologetically political, openly sexual, and musically explosive. By the time it opened on Broadway in 1968, HAIR had become a defining voice of its generation.

In Australia, HAIR made history with its 1969 premiere at Sydney’s Metro Theatre, directed by Jim Sharman. It was the first musical in the country to feature full nudity on stage, pushing artistic boundaries and igniting passionate debate. The Australian production launched the careers of many celebrated performers, including Reg Livermore, John Waters, and Marcia Hines.

Its success reflected the changing mood of the nation, mirroring Australia’s growing conversations about war, censorship, and generational change. More than 50 years later, HAIR remains a symbol of artistic freedom and social revolution — a work that continues to resonate with audiences today.

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HAIR: The Musical – Melbourne 2025 Production

HAIR: the Musical burst back onto the Melbourne stage last night with all the colour, energy, and free-spirited joy you would expect from this iconic show. The vibrant costumes perfectly captured the flower-power era, and the timeless music had the audience swaying, singing, and dancing out of their seats by the finale. The minimalist staging allowed the performers to truly shine, with each cast member delivering powerful vocals and heartfelt emotion throughout the night.

Directed by Glenn Elston, with choreography by Sue-Ellen Shook, musical direction by Paul Norton, and singing direction by Lyndsay Field, the 2025 Melbourne production brings HAIR to life for a new generation. This revival honours the rebellious spirit of the original while offering a fresh experience for modern audiences.

Leading the tribe in this new production are Alex Cooper (Much Ado About Nothing) as Claude, Maxwell Simon (Moulin Rouge, The Grinning Man) as Berger, Elizabeth Brennan (Pride and Prejudice) as Sheila, Clay Darius (Little Shop of Horrors, We Will Rock You, The Voice) as Hud, Rosie Meader (Everybody Loves A Wedding) as Jeannie, Jackson McGovern (Macbeth, Animal Farm) as Woof, Giorgia Kennedy (SIX, & Juliet) as Chrissie, and Zahrah Andrews (Hairspray) as Dionne. They are joined by a talented ensemble including Tamara Foglia Castañeda, Maverick Newman, Teresa Moore, Grant Young, Linden Trescott, Larissa Teale, Bronte Horswood, Madeleine Somers, and Cameron Shook.

While HAIR is well known for its boldness, the surprise nudity scene still caught many off guard — adding to the production’s raw authenticity and fearless spirit. Seeing members of the original 1991 cast on the red carpet added a wonderful touch of nostalgia to the evening.

Performance Details

Venue: Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins Street, Melbourne
Dates: 25 October – 30 November 2025
Times: Wed 1 pm & 7 pm, Thu–Sat 7.30 pm, Sun 1 pm & 6.30 pm (no shows Mon/Tue)
Tickets: From $59 – $139

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Content Warnings

HAIR: The Musical contains:
• Nudity and sexual content
• Strong language and references to drug use
• Anti-war and political themes
• Depictions of violence and death
• Racial and discriminatory language (in historical context)
• Flashing lights, haze, loud sound effects, and gunshot noises

All patrons under 16 years must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

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Final Thoughts

More than 50 years after it first shocked, inspired, and liberated audiences, HAIR: the Musical returns to Melbourne with electrifying energy, exceptional performances, and an unforgettable soundtrack. This joyful, rebellious, and heart-filled celebration of freedom and individuality reminds us that its message of peace, love, and unity is as powerful as ever. Celebrating the courage of a generation that dared to imagine a better world, this new production invites today’s audiences to do the same. HAIR is as wild and wonderful as ever — don’t miss it!

For more information or book tickets to see HAIR: The Musical

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