Dasie Thames returns to Serenbe Playhouse with a whole lot of Hair
Hair Week continues with an interview with Dasie Thames who plays Dionne in Serenbe Playhouse’s production of Hair: An American Tribal Love-Rock Musical. Her role is one of the most memorable and she leads many of the most moving songs. Dasie’s Dionne is a guiding light for the tribe, keeping them on track for what truly matters, and teaching a few lessons.
Below, Dasie talks about her role, the history lesson behind her Abe Lincoln, and being a part of the Serenbe Playhouse family.
Q. You are playing Dionne in Serenbe Playhouse’s production of Hair. Can you tell readers a little about your character and what drives her to be a part of this “tribe”?
A. Dionne is one of the first individuals to have joined the tribe. She decided to join after her younger brother was sent to Vietnam and killed in 1964. She met Ronny, who’s father had been killed. They formed a friendship and decided that the only way to truly protest and give a voice to their deceased love ones was to join the tribe and become protesters.
Q. This play has a lot of strong ideas that push the action along and make this hippie musical more than just a flower child revelry. How do you think that these ideas of war time and sexual revolution translate today?
A. We are still fighting wars that are seemingly unending and, often times, unclear as to why we are fighting. Our generation is not familiar with the draft but through the songs and relationships displayed in the show, they develop a connection with Claude and thus, understand how it impacted families, friends, communities, etc.
With regards to the sexual revolution, we are clearly still in the midst of it. For example, rather than protesting on the streets for equal rights of gays, our sexual revolution is focused more in the court house. It’s an issue that continues to unite and divide families and communities, thus, provides a creative and cultural bridge of relevance between the times of Hair and now.
Q. Hair is one of those musicals where the music is actually saying something about this counter culture, and the counter culture is taking influence and strength from the music. What is your favorite song in this production and why do you think it is so impactful?
A. There are so many verses from the various songs that speak to me personally. However, since I’m forced to choose, I would say that “What A Piece of Work Is Man” is my favorite. It’s lyrics float in front of a back drop of death, sadness, and chaos. However, just like the final lyric of the entire play, “Let the sunshine in,” the song serves as encouragement to the audience to look within and use one’s personal struggle and experience to create good in the world.
Q. There was a lot of controversy surrounding this play when it first came out because of its content. What do you think are some of the most daring theatrical moments in Serenbe Playhouse’s production and how is your character, Dionne, involved?
A. Dionne performs as Abraham Lincoln during “Abie Baby.” It’s a satirical portrayal of The Emancipation Proclimation that shows the true disconnect that existed between Abraham Lincoln and the decision to free the slaves. It’s in your face controversy that’s so witty and creatively wrapped, that you probably don’t realize you’ve had a history lesson until the scene is over.
Q. You have been a part of the Serenbe Playhouse family for a while now. What keeps you coming back to perform with this company? And how does the outdoor theatrical experience differ from the standard theater from an actor’s perspective?
A. Serenbe Playhouse is where both novice and professional actors converge to create some of the most organic and thought provoking works of art. The outdoor setting allows the audience to be a part of the cast, a feat that is not easily achieved in the more traditional theater houses. I feel free to explore all aspects of my creative energy without reproach or judgement. The process of creating the shows in inclusive and encouraged. I love how daring and creative Brian is and this season is the perfect reflection of his brilliance. I’m so thankful to have been a part of the playhouse since day one. I’ve seen it grow from a locally recognized theater company to gaining national attention in the performing arts community. I can only imagine what the next years will bring!
