9 to 5

Bracing the chilly wind and rain (yes I know its the end of April!) i was ushered to the box office to collect my tickets before taking my seat in the auditorium and looking forward to an evening's entertainment. Not to be disappointed.

9 to 5 is also known as the Dolly Parton musical, based on the film from the 1980's of the same name. The lights dimmed and the eight piece band under the musical directorship of Alastair Hume struck up and away we went. They made a great sound and at the perfect sound level and pitch. The set was well laid out with two tall trucks either side to stage left and stage right along with the centrepiece back stage middle. All staging on wheels that allowed each piece to be turned through their own axis to change the scenery, when needed for each scene. This was very well done by both the chorus and backstage crew, allowing downtime to be at an absolute minimum. Each change was also well embellished by the inclusion or removal of props. This kept the story moving well. The set and changes were enhanced by well thought out and programmed lighting and this adding to the sound levels meant that the balance between the principles/chorus and band was just about right.

The diction, both spoken and sung was of good quality and any dropped lines or nervousness was not in evidence. we as an audience was able to keep up with the plot very well.

The principle line up was strong, with Ellie Tripp as Violet, Emma Hardy as Doralee and Jess Barras as Judy, carrying out their roles with great characterisation, their on-stage (acting!) relationship with the show's misogynistic protagonist Franklyn Hart Jr, played by Tim Berry, and Julie Glover as Roz, all kept the show flowing well and at a good pace. They were very ably backed up by the chorus and minor principals. All knew where they were supposed to be and when and each played their parts well and with confidence. The choreography was inventive and in places slightly challenging, however the directorial team of Olwen Adams/Holly Dervan and Choreographer Kirsti Warne had obviously worked hard with the cast and it showed.

This was a happy chorus and cast and it showed. Always a good sign, it certainly came over into the auditorium and there were many whoops and cheers at the end. Well done Milton, thank you for a great evening.

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