9 to 5

The Caprian Theatre Company on their return to the stage after what has been a difficult period for the NODA family treated a very appreciative audience to a super rendition of Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5.

As most theatre aficionados know the story revolves on how three female secretaries, pushed to breaking point by their sexist and arrogant boss come together to set out an elaborate plan to put him firmly in his place and forge a place for themselves. Very apposite in today’s world.

In the skilful hands of Director/Choreographer Joan Oldfield and Musical Director John Hudson the show flowed at a great tempo with the use of minimal staging . This coupled with the use of back projection and video footage of Dolly Parton herself, together with clever prop usage, gave the production the light comedy touch needed.

The cast of 23 combined well, and their enjoyment came across the footlights. All had a cameo role in the show and we even had the joy of seeing the Noda National President Gordon Richardson featuring in the second act as Tinsworthy the Company’s top man. How fitting he should undertake the part.   Leading roles were undertaken by Kevin Riley as the overbearing and pompous Company Boss Franklin Hart Jr and his comedy timing and presence were ideal for the role.

The three secretaries were made up by Lindsay Kellegher (Violet Newstead) Andrea Riley (Doralee Rhodes) and Kirsty May (Judy Bernley). Lindsay once again showed what a wonderful  versatile and polished performer she is and nailed the role. Andrea as Doralee (AKA Dolly) took up the comparison challenge head on that was inevitable with this role. She met it and her rendition of Backwood Barbie was delightful. Kirsty a performer new to myself was a treat to watch and her singing bodes well for her future.

One often hears in the theatrical world of people undertaking minor roles/lesser parts. I don’t subscribe to that theory as all parts of whatever hue is crucial to the success of a show. Therefore in thanking the whole cast for a great time I would also like to single out Lisa Elliott for her fine interpretation of Roz Keith the doting PA to Franklin, Ian Mordue the lovelorn accountant Joe and Barbara Waugh, as Margaret (the old lush)

Finally to the Front of House Team and all those backstage without whom the show would not go on.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.