TKO Productions and Town Square Players are presenting their version of the musical "Hair" at Cedar Crest College.

This two-act musical, set in New York in the 1960s portrays the story about a "Tribe" a group of political active long haired hippies living a bohemian life and fighting against conscription during the Vietnam War.

The musical is based on the Broadway musical of the same name written by James Rado and Germone Ragni with music by Gait MacDermont.

Tyler Fernandez plays George Berger and Justin Brinker portrays Claude in the show.

"Berger is the leader of the "Tribe" who struggles between keeping it upbeat when things aren't looking good and dealing with his best friend Claude, who has a dilemma of his own," Fernandez said.

He said he liked the crazy and goofy role Berger plays because it keeps things moving and helps with the energy in the show.

"'Hair' is a life changing experience," Fernandez said. "The message of love and hope are still applicable today and it's a beautiful show."

"I recently was seen in 'Hair' as Berger with the Westminster Players of Rider University and am so grateful to play the role again with this incredible tribe," he said.

Brinker said Claude is the epitome of a lost soul.

"Most people during this time period were torn between two ideas," he said. "Claude wasn't even on the scale. He's invisible in a society of invisibles."

"Berger and I are very similar, it's scary sometimes," Brinker said.

He said he likes the show because of its non-linear nature and its lack of boundaries.

"It's how I live my life and I'm glad I can show it on stage," Brinker said.

Morgan Reilly also commented on her role as Shelia Franklin in the show.

"My character is a protestor and throughout the show she leads the 'Tribe' through a series of protests," Reilly said.

She said she likes how her character is pretty fierce, very powerful and independent.

"As strong as she is, she also has a soft side," Reilly said. "It's an adventure to have the opportunity to play her."

"'Hair' is one of my favorite shows because of the message it sends to the audience," she said. "It truly captures the essence of hippie life and the importance of peace and love thinning in an era filled with war and violence."

The musical is directed by Mark Stutz, with staging and choreography by Kelly Jean Graham and musical direction by June Thomas.

Stutz commented on why the musical "Hair" was chosen.

"The musical was chosen as a tribute to Guthsville Playhouse, which produced the show 40 years ago in this same playhouse," Stutz said. "Tom Ortalano, who played Berger, one of the two lead roles was recently inspired to honor the production of the 1974 and 1975 production of 'Hair' right here in Alumnae Hall."

"Those of us who are involved in the show thought there was relevance in the production today because of the conflicts around the world and young people are questioning the establishment and the decisions being made in regard to the future of the country," he said.

Stutz said the show follows a "Tribe" of hippies in Central Park, N.Y., as they deal with the war, drugs, relationships and parents and they do it all with a sense of joy and high energy.

"Claude is faced with the decision to go to the draft or dodge the draft," he said.

He said the show is very audience oriented and high energy and is not appropriate for young children.

"Hair" will be performed 8 p.m. Aug. 8, 9, 15 and 16 and 2 p.m. Aug. 10 and 17.

To purchase tickets, visit hairtickets40.com.

To learn more about the show, cast or for more information, visit hairthemusical40thanniversarylv.com or call 610-770-7700 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays.