The groundbreaking musical *Hair: An American Tribal Love-Rock Musical* first captivated audiences Off-Broadway, premiering at the Public Theater on October 17, 1967. This initial production laid the foundation for what would become a cultural phenomenon, introducing the world to the music of Galt MacDermot and the lyrics of Gerome Ragni and James Rado. The Off-Broadway run was significant not only for its artistic content but also for adhering to established
trade union and other contracts, a common practice for shows that often aim for a subsequent Broadway transfer. The cast recording, released by RCA Victor in the same year, captured the raw energy and original vision of this pivotal theatrical event.
Capturing the Original Sound: The Cast Recording
The cast recording of *Hair*'s original Off-Broadway production was released in 1967 by RCA Victor, just two weeks after the musical's premiere. This album serves as a vital historical document, preserving the early iteration of the show. The lead roles were performed by a talented ensemble, including Walker Daniels as Claude, Gerome Ragni as Berger, Jill O'Hara as Sheila, Steve Dean as Woof, Arnold Wilkerson as Hud, Sally Eaton as Jeanie, and Shelley Plimpton as Crissy. The recording captured the essence of the musical's initial run, allowing a wider audience to experience its innovative sound and themes.
This original recording is particularly notable for including songs that were later removed from the Broadway production. Tracks like "Exanaplanetooch" and "Climax" are unique to the Off-Broadway album, offering a glimpse into the show's evolving structure. While some vocal performances, specifically those by Ragni and Eaton, received criticism from reviewers like Allmusic.com, Plimpton's contribution was praised. The album's release on CD as a bonus disc alongside the Broadway album further expanded its content, adding songs such as "Opening," "Red Blue And White" (which would become "Don't Put It Down"), and the finale "Sentimental Ending," along with an interview with composer Galt MacDermot.
Distinctive Elements of the Off-Broadway Version
The Off-Broadway production of *Hair* featured several key differences from its later Broadway counterpart. One significant alteration was the characterization of Claude, the lead role. In the Off-Broadway version, Claude was conceived as a space alien with aspirations of becoming a cinematic director. This unique backstory was revised for the Broadway production, highlighting the creative development the musical underwent as it prepared for a larger stage.
Beyond character changes, the inclusion of specific songs like "Exanaplanetooch" and "Climax" marked the Off-Broadway version as distinct. These songs, which did not make it into the Broadway run, contribute to the unique identity of the original production and its cast recording. The Off-Broadway premiere at the Public Theater, a venue known for fostering new and experimental works, provided the ideal environment for *Hair* to develop its revolutionary style and content before its eventual move to Broadway, where many successful Off-Broadway shows ultimately find a larger audience and extended runs.
