The writer makes a surprise visit — delighting the cast and crew
It's not often the writer of a Tony Award winning musical visits a small community theater to see his show performed. But on Saturday, July 30, the cast of the Sketch Club Players' production of "Hair" was surprised by the author, James Rado.
Rado, who also originated the role of "Claude" in the 1968 Broadway production, traveled down from North Jersey to take in the rock musical that was nominated for a Best Musical Tony in 1969, and won for Best Revival of a Musical in 2009. Joining Rado in the audience was actress Helene Adele Masiko, who played the role of "Jeanie" in the 1974-75 National Touring Company of "Hair."
"This exuberant, talented tribe and their passionate, gifted young director totally blew me away! The show made my heart and my lips sing. I am still on a happy, hippie high and will be for a long time," said Masiko, adding, "who better to assess the quality of a performance of his baby than Jim Rado? He was elated and delighted."
Rado joined the standing ovation, and later spent time talking and taking photos with the cast, and congratulating director Justin Walsh. The show ran two weekends, and played to full houses each performance.