Nineteenth century long locks and excessive facial hair are making a comeback for students involved in Staples Players’ production of “Hello, Dolly” this fall. To fully capture the essence of the early 19th century characters, the cast–boys and girls–had to grow out their hair for the show.

For boys, this includes facial hair as well.

“Because in the 1890s, so many of the men had mustaches or muttonchops, we thought it would be fun to just ask the boys if they think they can grow some of it,” Players director David Roth said.

When opening of the show nears, boys will go to the barbershop and get their hair cut and styled to match the show’s 19th century setting. Many students involved in the play have little problem with growing out their hair as it eliminates the need for wigs.

“It just makes it easier for everyone involved if we look the part by using our natural hair,” Bailey Claffey ’15, a featured dancer, said.

Some Players are even more enthusiastic about growing out their hair.

“It looks much better on stage when the haircuts are of the correct time period, and this helps create the world of the play,”  ensemble member Colin McKechnie ’17 said.

Everett Sussman ’15 is especially glad that he won’t have to use his razor anytime soon.

“I am happy to do it for the show, and it gives me an excuse not to shave,” Sussman joked.

If a student did not grow out his or her hair, though, consequences for disobeying the request would not necessarily be grave.

“We don’t punish them, but we certainly expect them to listen to what we tell them to do,” Roth said.

Overall, Roth believes that avoiding the use of wigs will add to the authenticity of the show.

“The show is going to look great, and the hair is going to look fantastic,” Roth said.