Six months ago I was only familiar with a few songs from the rock musical "Hair". I was not familiar with the story, the characters, or even the content of the show and if you had asked me what the show was about I probably would have given you my familiar deer in the headlights look.

I received a call from David Evanoff, mid-February, asking me what my plans were for the summer. At the time I was fairly certain that by June-July I would be moved out of Utah and relocated to Las Vegas. He informed me of the upcoming auditions of "Hair" and that he and Jerry Rapier were wanting me to audition for the role of Claude. "This would be the chance of a lifetime for you!" he said, "your resume would be much more impressive with this show at the top!".
Over the next few weeks I debated back and forth whether or not to audition. I started my extensive research about the show and became very enthralled with the music and the history. Dave and I talked over the phone a number of times about the show, the content, music, and the all famous NUDE SCENE.
The beginning of March hit and auditions were less than a week away. I had become very nervous about auditioning for the show and my conservative background had me questioning whether or not this was for me. I would one moment be convinced this show was not for me and then the next have something tell me I needed this experience. One of the biggest influences was my grand musical partner Deena Marie Manzanares. She and I had done 2 shows previously and in both shows played opposite each other. How could I pass up another chance to do a show with her?
Audition day came and I missed it. I backed out. Never showed. Chickened out. Call it what you want, I just didn't go. I put the blame on how busy my schedule was already. "I had to work and I couldn't get away. Anywho my schedule is way too busy to take on anything else." Inside myself I knew I was blowing a huge opportunity. The same evening after I had missed auditions I called David and left him a voicemail. "Dave, is there any chance that I would be able to still audition or be able to make it to callbacks in the morning? I really want an opportunity to be in this show." The next day I was invited to attend callbacks.
From the second I entered into the room I could feel an incredible energy and power to the show that weeks ago I had known so little about. From that moment on I never looked back.
Fast forward to the present. I've been in rehearsals for "Hair" now nearly 6 weeks and this has single-handedly been the most difficult, emotional, and yet rewarding experience of my acting career. I have always had a love for the stage. I have not, however, been involved in a show where each person involved has such an overwhelming passion for the content of the show.
*the following bit of this blog is very personal to me*
In my journey as a performer I have always aimed to please those very close to me. I love being up on stage! It has been a passion of mine my whole life and I love the thrill and excitement of putting on an incredible show and being able to see peoples responses afterward. It gives my life meaning.
The role of Claude parallels my own personal life in so many ways. In the show Claude has to make a choice between being drafted into the military or following his heart. It tears him to have to choose between what is expected of him by his parents, the world, his friends, and his faith. The choice he is faced with, and the choices that he has to make eventually cost him his life.
I have had a few people close to me express a bit of disappointment in my choice to be artistically involved in "Hair". In their minds I have sold my soul and joined the forces of the underworld and the next stop in my career is gate keeper of hell. This is unfortunate. Not everyone who is a bit more reserved on their views has treated me like this but there have been a few. The weight Claude feels in the show is a weight I also have felt at times in my personal life in the last few months. My family, friends, and my faith, are all very important to me. Sometimes having to live what's expected of you can be very tiresome. The song "I Got Life" is Claude's way of expressing that he is a free spirit and that if he is JUST given the opportunity he could spread it around the world and "perform miracles". Claude lyrics speak perfectly in answer to the expectations others have weighed upon me. I feel sorry for those that judge my involvement as an artist in this production.
I have, on the other hand, been extremely surprised at how many of my close friends and family have been beyond supportive of my decision. Many are even excited to see the show! To each of you wonderful people I dedicate this upcoming performance. Thank you for your overwhelming, consistent, and unconditional support from day one! I also want to thank David Evanoff and Jerry Rapier for believing in me and putting the confidence in me for this show. Thank you!
I never would have guessed I would be so passionate about this show 5 and 1/2 months ago and I can honestly say that this show has been a life changing event. The rehearsals have been an amazing ride and, at times, more than I can handle (those involved know the emotional intensity we have felt especially in the last few weeks). I wouldn't change one thing. I love my cast, crew, and directors!
I would like to extend an invitation to ALL my family and friends to see the upcoming production of "Hair" at the Egyptian theater! The show is very heavy and deals with "grown up" themes and yes, there is even about 30 seconds of nudity. I promise you though, that if you come to the show with an OPEN MIND and look past the innocent layer of "adult content" in this show, that you will get something out of it. I have grown as an artist by being involved in this show. Like I mentioned before, I have never been involved in a show that has been so emotional rewarding (and at times draining). I hope that each person that sees the show can leave by having "Let the sunshine" in their lives just a little bit.


Don't forget to get your tickets soon!
http://www.egyptiantheatrecompany.org/