LAND OF CLEVE REVIEW:

Exciting, Exuberant 'Hair'

at Near West Theatre

Induces Psychedelic

Sixties' Flashbacks

Director/musical director Bob Navis Jr. has done it again, taking this classic musical about the psychedelic 1960s and turning it into a theatrical spectacle that is at once reverent to its roots and relevant to today's world. Navis has carefully crafted the show to reflect its original incarnation, while at the same time underscoring the universal elements of the songs and scenes so that modern audiences can relate to them.

Devon Turchan is quite simply a revelation as Claude, the young man with delusions of Grand Ol' England and an aversion to the draft. His vocals are vibrant and his emotions are visceral.

Turchan is surrounded by a virtual sea of amazing, evocative castmates. Beau Reddington makes a rebellious Berger, Leah Windale soars as Sheila, Taylor Nagy's Chrissy tugs at your heartstrings, Andy Schumann is an awesome Woof, Anthony Williams makes a formidable Hud, and Leah Smith is a radiant Jeannie.

The rest of the talented Tribe is equally as dynamic and dedicated to their roles, and include Tasha Brandt, Taylor Bryan, Sara Chapman, Antonio DeJesus, Rachel Drotar, Kelcie Dugger, Lauren Gale, Nigeria Gould, Hillary Horton, Bethy Jarus, Jabri Johnson, Mike Knobloch, Connor Ling, Alexis Mann, Vickey McBride, Ishmael Phillips, Emily Plank, Scott Pyle, Kamal Raslan, Adam Rawlings, Kihresha Redmond, Bryan Ritz-Spikes, Gwen Stembridge, and Jordan Thompson...

Read the full review at:

http://inthelandofcleve.blogspot.com/2015/08/cleve-review-exciting-exuberant-hair-at.html