9 to 5

This show, based on the Film, was really written as a vehicle for Dolly Parton’s songs and, in that context it works very well.   The story is weak and less than believable but LTC, definitely, pulled it off.

The stellar cast were all very good, Lianne Larth (Violet Newstead) was strong and brought just the right characterisation to the part.   Louise Strachan (Doralee Rhodes) playing the Dolly Parton role, avoided being a carbon copy of Dolly, but gave an excellent performance as the not-so-ditsy Southern Belle.   Eleanor Softly completed the trio of leading ladies as Judy Bernly, giving another excellent performance.  These three ladies are a force to be reckoned with on stage!

Stephanie Wilson played the ‘ignored’ secretary, Roz Keith perfectly.  She has a superb singing voice, her capabilities as an actress are endless and her comedic timing is impeccable.   Steph is a seasoned and talented performer and she is always a joy to watch whatever the role.    John Blatchford (Joe) played a very different role to those that I have seen him perform before and it was an excellent performance.   Ian Benson completes the Principal roles, with a good performance as the misogynistic Franklin Hart Jr.

There were numerous named roles, unfortunately too many for me to mention individually but every performer in stage, including the ensemble, had their individual characters and they were all good.   The singing was superb, backed by a well-balanced orchestra led by MD Clare Penfold.

Choreography was by Samantha Ellis and it was very well created.  Well done for getting the men to dance well and well done to the men for working on it!

The scenery was impressive and, knowing the limitations backstage, the cast and crew did wonders to get it all working.  Costumes were excellent, right on period and plenty of variety to indicate the passing of time.   The production moved at a good pace and it was clear that the entire cast were having a blast!

I thoroughly enjoyed the evening which was enhanced by being greeted by the Director personally and being hosted during the interval.  It really makes a difference to have the opportunity to ask questions about the rehearsal period and the overall issues of the production (there are always some!) so my thanks to Little Theatre Company for welcoming us to the show.

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