9 to 5

This iconic Dolly Parton Musical has been performed frequently over the past few years, but SAMS version was still fresh and thought provoking. They gave it their all and it proved a very enjoyable production. The concept of a sexist, arrogant and bigoted boss is, regrettably, still a possibility in the workplace and, although set in the late 1970’s, has a lot of resonance today.

The three ladies leading the cast were all excellent, Kendra Laird gave a well-rounded and definitive performance as Violet, showing her development from a ‘put upon’ secretary to a determined and strong leader. Hannah Skene (Doralee) produced an iconic ‘Dolly Parton’ character reflecting Dolly’s own persona with strength and dignity. Rachel Nee (Judy) was the typical new girl, showing the character’s development from a nervous housewife to a strong and independent woman. The script calls for all three to demonstrate the development of feminism which was of the time. They did this with style, grace and excellent characterisation.

Mitch Scott-Bell as Franklin Hart revelled in this role giving us plenty of sexist, arrogant and pompous behaviour, with just enough sleaze for the audience to be happy for him to be kidnapped, gagged, tied up and flown at the end of Act one.

Carrie Cairney in the role of Roz Keith, Franklin Hart’s personal secretary, was a particular favourite, her comedy timing was great and I particularly liked the fact that she threw herself completely and unashamedly in to the role as she yearned for the love and attention of Hart.

 Darren Gill was perfect as Joe, Violet’s admirer, and his duet with her 'Let Love Grow' was very expressively sung.

The show offers a whole host of cameo roles and, without exception, these were well performed by the talented cast – none more so than that of Margaret, the office drunk,  played with excellent comedy by Katrina Bradley. I did enjoy Katrina’s characterisation and her total change of character in the Finale.

The SAMS ensemble deserves high praise for their fine singing and movement throughout.  Whilst on the subject of movement, Donna Bustard’s choreography was a delight to watch! Never can any of her routines be described as repetitive or boring – nice to see some fresh movement! Musical Direction was accurate and it was a pleasure to see the cast responding so well to the backing tracks.

Claire Rioch’s first class direction not only made for a very understandable production but also made for a very slick performance with the cast undertaking the majority of the scenic moves – cutting the down-time between scenes to the bare minimum.

Technically, sets, lighting, sound and costuming were all sympathetically undertaken.

Well done SAMS, and many thanks for the invite to your production!

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