9 to 5

9 to 5 is a musical that shows the strength of women when they join forces and decide to change their circumstances.  Set in 1979, “9 to 5” deals with sexist-based discrimination and attitudes in the office and is based on the 1980 movie “9 to 5” with the book and the music written by Dolly Parton who starred in the film.  In this show, each character learns how to overcome harassment in the office, so they can become a force to be reckoned with, changing the workplace to be better for women. 

MAOS' production of “9 to 5: The Musical" is due to its three leads who equally share the limelight: the office supervisor Violet Newstead played by Kathryn Norman who was very brave to continue after breaking a bone in her foot She is such a seasoned and talented actress that after a time one completely forgot the wheelchair. Well done Kathryn so brave. The role of the new employee Judy Bernly was extremely well sung by Ashleigh Smith.  The third member of the trio, Kay Walker, gave a lovely portrayal of the misunderstood Doralee Rhodes with a fine accent.  The part of the sexist and chauvinist boss, Franklin Hart Jnr was taken by David Waller.  The role of a chauvinistic nasty piece of work is very difficult but David firmly maintained the characterisation throughout particularly during his song ‘Here For You’ .   Julie Argent deserves a special mention for her portrayal of Hart’s assistant, Roz Keith, who is romantically obsessed with her boss Hart - trying to keep her cool but loses it in the end, Julie got the balance just right, and undertook took this comedy part well. 

Joe played by Barry Sahyvers, the love interest with Violet, gave the part a certain amount of vulnerability.  All those who played supporting roles are to be congratulated for their characterisations which they maintained throughout. 

The choreography created by Katie Russell was most appropriate for the music style and very well executed by all involved. 

The crew did a splendid job with the scene changes and props – not an easy task with this show.  The makeup and costumes were effective and mainly in period except possibly the shoes.  Great back projection for the set however there were time when the lighting on stage right for the singers was a little dull. 

The near flawless orchestra under the very able baton of musical director John Mills delivered a well-balanced band with the right amount of volume and a great sound. 

Congratulations to everyone involved especially the director, Tony Cassidy, who certainly moulded this cast well into giving us a great night's entertainment.

 

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