9 to 5 The Musical

Written by Patricia Resnick, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, the musical 9 to 5 is based on the 1980`s movie of the same name. After its` first year on Broadway, it received 4 Tony nominations, and 15 Drama Desk Award Nominations. Set in 1979, it centres around the lives of three women- Violet, Doralee and Judy who forge an unlikely friendship, working under their sexist, lecherous, self-opinionated, lying boss (self-made man, who worshipped his own creator). They join up to turn the tables on their boss to prove that together, there is nothing they can`t do, and though triumphant in the end there are some touching, poignant and funny moments along the way.
Dolly Parton introduced the show (via a projected image) introducing us to the main characters throughout the prologue. This must have caused the MD a few sleepless nights in the run up to the show, as the music had to coincide with the timing of the introductions/projections- no need to have worried though, it was seamless- well done MD/Orchestra.

From the opening number, “ 9 to 5” with characters in various state of undress, chorus movement cleverly choreographed and all  interacting with each other, we were in no doubt that this was going to be a fun, lively show.

Alison Birtle played Violet Newstead- the Head Secretary continually overlooked for promotion for her less capable male counterparts, with confidence. Downtrodden in her role at work, trying to bring up a teenage son with all of the angst that comes with it, holding on to the past and being scared to commit to a different future-all of the aspects of the character showed through.
Sophie Butler had the unenviable task of playing Doralee Rhodes, the character Dolly herself played in the film. With a role like this, it would be so easy to try to impersonate Dolly and put nothing of oneself into the character. Sophie made this part her own. Of course there was a nod to Dolly, for this there has to be-it was written for her, but Sophie brought this sympathetic character to life, capturing her innocence so well, yet sassy as Hell too. With the Texan drawl to match, she never once lost the accent. Sophie created a real audience connection - her “Backwoods Barbie” was a pleasure to hear.

Hannah Morris played the new girl, Judy Bernly, a rather insecure, abandoned by her husband for a younger model, lacking in confidence woman trying to return to the world of work with no office skills whatsoever. Hannah`s character development from vulnerable to strong and empowered woman with the help of her co-workers, was managed with aplomb. Her delivery of the heartfelt “Get Out and Stay Out” was  outstanding.

Gail Bowskill was great as the over-zealous Office ‘tell-tale’ Roz Keith- frustrated and in love with Hart, gaining little sympathy from her office or the audience. In her “Heart to Hart” number, the cold, meticulous, memo-obsessed supervisor showed a side to her we`d not seen before- in fact we saw many sides!

Ray Jenkinson played the sexist, lecherous, self-opinionated  boss, Franklin Hart. His “Here for You” couldn`t fail to make people laugh, and his interpretation of the role was entertaining, though for me, at times a little over the top.

James Shields played the young accountant Joe brilliantly, the awkwardness of the character, his laugh and great singing had the audience with him all the way- wishing Violet would take the plunge and give him a chance.

The  rest  of the Cast also shone in various roles- too numerous to mention, although Duncan Ryan (Doralee`s husband, Dwayne), Gabriel Cooper (Violet`s son, Josh) and office drunk Margaret, played by Irene Melling were particularly worthy of praise.

Set changes were slick, well drilled and efficient, especially with so many changes in this show. Lighting and sound were up to the usual high standard we`ve come to expect at Lancaster Grand.

The Orchestra and company dealt with the production`s many different musical styles with ease under the excellent Musical Direction of Joanna Jeffreys

As Director and Choreographer, Steve Chesters must be really pleased with this production. He had obviously worked hard with the cast, chorus movement throughout was excellent-well drilled and well executed routines which never let up on pace. Energy and enthusiasm a plenty!
 Congratulations to everyone both on and off the stage for this funny, fast paced, audience pleasing musical, and thank you MAODS, for your hospitality.
 

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