Producers today announced the cast for the new Australian production of HAIR, the revolutionary tribal love-rock musical phenomenon that changed the face of theatre forever.
Opening at the Athenaeum Theatre from 25 October 2025, this new production of HAIR will bring together a dynamic new ensemble to revive the show’s message of freedom, rebellion and hope for a whole new generation.
Leading the HAIR tribe will be 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, Max Macdonald (The Jungle Book) as Walter, 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 Tamara Foglia Castañeda (In the Heights) as Emmaretta, Maverick Newman (Footloose, Boys in the Band) as Leonard, Teresa Moore (Bran Nue Dae, Playschool) as Natalie, Grant Young (Is God Is) as Leroy, Linden Trescott (Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes) as Apache, Larissa Teale (A Midsummer Night’s Dream) as Angela, Bronte Horswood (Tinkerbell and the Dream Fairies) as Linda, Madeleine Somers (A Midsummer Night’s Dream) as Astrid and Cameron Shook as Cammy (Tinkerbell and the Dream Fairies).
When HAIR first exploded onto the Australian stage in the early 1970s, it not only shocked and thrilled audiences, but also launched the careers of some of the country’s most beloved performers. Artists such as Marcia Hines, Reg Livermore, John Waters, Lyndsay Field and Sylvie Paladino all appeared in early productions, cementing their places in Australian music and theatre history.
Created by Gerome Ragni and James Rado (book and lyrics) and featuring an electrifying score by Galt MacDermot, it became an anthem for a generation, and included unforgettable hits such as Aquarius, Good Morning Starshine, Let the Sunshine In, and the title track Hair – songs that broke records, topped charts, and helped define the sound of the era.
Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, the groundbreaking musical captures the 1960s counterculture spirit and its quest for peace, truth and freedom, telling the story of free-spirited young hippies who advocate a lifestyle of pacifism and free love in a society riddled with intolerance and brutality.
As they explore sexual identity, challenge racism, experiment with drugs and burn draft cards, the “tribe” not only create an irresistible message of hope and change, but also address timeless themes of alienation, civil disobedience, and youthful defiance that continue to resonate with audiences almost 60 years later.
Speaking about the casting, director Glenn Elston said: “We are thrilled to announce this incredible Australian cast bursting with talent, charisma and individuality. Each of them brings something unique to the stage and together they will capture the raw energy and joy that makes Hair so powerful.”
HAIR premiered off-Broadway in 1967 before transferring to Broadway the following year. It quickly became a global phenomenon – both for its soundtrack and for the way it challenged the boundaries of traditional musical theatre.
HAIR THE MUSICAL
Book and Lyrics by Gerome Ragni and James Rado
Music by Galt MacDermot
Directed by Glenn Elston
Choreography by Sue-Ellen Shook
Musical Director Paul Norton
Singing Director Lyndsay Field
Band Leader Colin Snape
Venue: Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins St, Melbourne
Dates: 25 October to 22 November
Price: From $59 – $139
Times: Wed 1pm & 7pm, Thu – Sat 7.30pm, Sun 1pm & 6.30pm (no show Mon or Tue)
Tickets: www.hairthemusical.com.au
