Hair at Paramount Theatre

Chicago Tribune - Recommended

"...I wouldn't say that all the ballads soar as they could (although Adams' "Where Do I Go?" is hugely powerful). Nor has Rockwell solved all the transitions in this episodic musical. Before the famous nude scene, actors suddenly disrobe (and I mean suddenly) without it being clear exactly why they want to show us their bodies, lovely as they may be, beyond the expectation in the script. And in the difficult, bizarre sections early in Act 2, the episodes of this disjointed narrative have a few thuds and dead spots in their crucial connective tissue, which is not atypical with "Hair." You do not, though, find any such stutters in Doug Peck's musical direction. The score sounds great."

Centerstage - Recommended

"...As a true ensemble show, praise must go to every member of Rockwell’s splendidly talented cast, in particular Donica Lynn, Molly Callinan, Alexis J. Rogers, Sean Effinger-Dean and Josh A. Dawson. Doug Peck’s brilliant musical direction, vocal arrangements and 11-member rock combo help create the period. And ultimately, Rockwell delivers the show’s anti-war message home in the most heartbreaking final moments of any production in memory, leaving audiences craving to “Let the Sunshine In.”"

ChicagoCritic - Somewhat Recommended

"... I must say that most of the musical numbersand danceswerenicely performed and staged. Most of the opening night audience seemed toeither enjoy theproduction or they left at the intermission. Most stayedand enthusiastically liked the cast. I think that Hair needs to be directed by those who werearound duringthose turbulent times or someone must get the young cast members to understand exactly the motivations of the draft protesting kids.Terrifictunes like “Aquarius” and “Let the Sun Shine In” seemed to lack the necessaryemotional edge. Maybe itstime tolet Hair rest? At a top ticket price of only $46.90, ParamountTheatreoffers a value ofan Equity infused cast that is long on energy."

Chicago Stage and Screen - Recommended

"...Hair, Hair, Hair, Hair, Hair, Hair, Hair..."Hair" is back and Director Rachel Rockwell scores another home run at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora now playing through April 1st. "Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical", featuring book and lyrics by James Rado and Gerome Ragni and music by Galt MacDermot, originally opened Off-Broadway in 1967, and on Broadway in 1968. This is a story of a tribe of hippies who are living in NY when using illegal drugs, protesting Vietnam and sexual freedom is prevalent. Peace, love, freedom and happiness is the mission and the young energetic cast is here to tell you about it. I performed in this show 30 lbs and 20 years ago at Circle Theatre and so this show holds a special place in my heart."

Around The Town Chicago - Recommended

"... Manny of these cast members are young people who have graced the smaller theaters in town and it was wonderful to see them in a large production such as this.Now that they are exposed to the larger venues, I am sure they will do more of these productions, but hope they will not forget their roots."