“We are purposefully pushing the boundaries to make people uncomfortable and make a statement,” said Amy Osatinski about TheatreUNI’s production of “Hair.” Osatinski is an assistant professor of theatre, with an emphasis in directing.

“Hair” is a Broadway musical celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2018. Osatinski, a new addition to the department this year, sees the production as more than a musical.

“’Hair’ is a historically important production. It was the first successful rock musical, and it was intricately tied to the culture of the time,” Osatinski said.

The culture of the time included Vietnam war protests, the civil rights movement and the emergence of hippie culture. Osatinski said the musical is still relevant today.

“Part of my job is connecting 2018 to 1968, and I think we’ve done a good job,” Osatinski said.

As Strayer Wood Theatre’s website puts it, Hair is a “story of people who —  facing a world of hardships — fight for social justice and against the draft. In order to maintain their beliefs and change the world, they must work together to promote safety, change, equality and to, ‘Let the Sunshine in.’”

Another interesting part of this production is the collaboration behind the project. Osatinski explained that TheatreUNI collaborates with the School of Music, with Rebecca Burkhardt, professor of conducting and music theory, serving as a music director.

Music students and faculty are also part of the band.

All sets, costumes, lighting and choreography are unique to Osatinski’s direction. Of these, the sets and costumes were created by students. Choreography for the show was created by Mandy Masmar, instructor of physical education.

Osatinski also believes in giving actors the freedom to shape their script and character under her direction. In fact, the assistant director and senior theatre major, Arlina Miller, staged several pieces.

Osatinski wants students to know that the production features “language and things that are very much of 1968 and might feel difficult now.” That includes drugs, sex, and racism — including nudity and use of the n-word. Osatinski embraces the adult nature of “Hair,” fully intending to push social boundaries. She is also putting her own flair into the project, creating a refreshing beginning and ending to the Broadway script.

Students can get their ticket for free at a box office; shows will run Feb. 22 to 25 and March 1 to 4 at Strayer Wood Theatre. Osatinski advises students to get tickets soon, as TheatreUNI expects the second weekend to sell out.

For students who need more persuasion, Osatinski offers a special incentive: “Hair” features a special seating pit that actors will enter during the show. At each show, 20 audience members will get to sit onstage in a pit of beanbags, mattresses and rugs.

Osatinski encourages anyone and everyone to see “Hair,” saying, “It is a show that will speak to pretty much everybody, young and old.”