9 to 5

The show opens on a busy scene of folk getting ready for a normal 9 to 5 day’s work in an office dominated by the typical alpha male ego. Office politics, broken relationships and gender bias involve three ladies who grasp the opportunity to get their own back, redress the balance and grow in stature along the way. Some hilarious scenes including the marihuana induced fantasies and the kidnapping and ‘suspension’ of the boss tickle the audience - certainly the female punters. Violet the talented and overlooked office manager is well characterised by Lynne Hurst who strikes a keen balance between uncertainty in a new relationship and assertiveness in her ability to run a large organisation.  Unrecognisable as herself in the part of Doralee, Suzanne Smail catches the Dolly Parton accent and style perfectly and delivers her numbers with razzmatazz. In strong voice, Gillian Sullivan is a revelation as Judy the nervous, newly-divorced office newbie who transforms into a confident independent person capable of running her own life. All three deliver their musical numbers with passion and talent. Meanwhile Louise Fairnie applies herself to the difficult role of Roz the office snoop and torch bearer for the boss and brings the house down with her fantasy in ‘Heart to Hart’. The object of all the angst is the 'sexist and egotistical’ boss Hart played with relish by Peter Tomasso and played so well that the audience has little sympathy for his plight. The hope for the males lies in the character of Joe enacted by Ross Bain who tries to woo Violet with respect for who she is. Good supporting performances come, among others, from Alistair Thomas as Dwayne, Pam Murray as Margaret, Cathy Collier as Kathy and Ronnie Barnes as Tinsworthy. Light-hearted but with a distinct edge, this was a fast moving show with great emotional numbers well sung by the cast, aptly choreographed and with a set that facilitated the different scenes like clockwork. Performing in the heat of a Mediterranean-like evening, I have nothing but admiration for cast and crew in delivering another memorable show.

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