Hair will have them dancing in the aisles

SIXTIES SHOW: Rotorua Musical Theatre's production of Hair is set to entertain audiences over the coming weeks. PHOTO/WILLI WERNER, FOTOZONE PHOTOGRAPHY

Throw on your tie-dye T-shirt, slip into some bell-bottom jeans and get ready to take a journey back to the 1960s.

Rotorua Musical Theatre's production of Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical opens at Casa Blanca Theatre tonight, giving audiences a chance to go back to a time where long hair, hippie culture and messages of freedom, peace and love reigned supreme.

The controversial American rock musical will feature more than 50 songs, including popular tunes like Aquarius, Let the Sun Shine In, Good Morning, Starshine and Easy to be Hard as well as plenty of skin, bare bottoms and a 20-second nude scene, voluntary for cast members.

It tells the story of the "tribe", a group of politically active, long-haired hippies, living a Bohemian life in New York City and fighting against conscription into the Vietnam War.

Director Richard Marshall said the musical was sure to be a hit with Rotorua audiences as many of its themes were still relevant today.

"It explores issues that we still face today. Issues like war and conscription, equal rights for same sex couples and for people of different races and genders," he said.

Mr Marshall hoped the musical, which also featured a live band, would have audiences up and dancing in the aisles.

"It's got some fantastic music with great ballads and plenty of tunes people can dance to."

Mr Marshall said the show also featured a colourful set, dazzling costumes, bright lights and a cast of "incredibly talented" performers who were ready to show audiences what they've got.

"It's not to be missed. Get in quick for tickets because they're sure to be snapped up fast."

Hair will run until May 31. Tickets are available from Ticketmaster at the Rotorua Convention Centre or online at www.ticketmaster.co.nz. For more information go to: www.rotoruamusicaltheatre.co.nz.

Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical
Casa Blanca Theater, 122 Riri St, Rotorua
Today from 8pm, tomorrow from 8pm and Sunday at 2pm. Runs until May 31.
Prices from $22 to $32.