9 to 5

Most people are familiar with this story of women showing great power and strength in fighting for their rights, and the Minerva Club did exactly this. The opening developed well into the day-to-day rituals for getting on with life in the world of work. We experienced the usual breakfast scenes and rush to get ready for the day ahead, and this was all well staged. Getting to know the back stories of the characters by Dolly Parton in the introductory video, this aspect of the show worked well. There was a smooth transition into the office setting creating a busy working environment. Susan McMahon in the role of Violet Newstead gave an excellent performance throughout the production with strong vocals, punchy dialogue and an abundance of stage presence: we knew early on that she was in charge.  Nicole Gusha brought a lovely contrast in the role of Judy Bernley. Playing the timid inexperienced office worker, the role developed well, and the powerhouse ballad Get Out and Stay Out was a defining moment in her performance, displaying great versatility. In the role of Doralee, Kirsten McDonald played the typical blonde sassy, sexy bombshell. However, she showed her strength of character as she dealt with Franklin Hart Jnr in her own way - a great performance with strong vocals and acting. Jonathan Proctor played the egotistical, sleazy boss always wanting his own way particularly with Doralee. Jonathan’s acting and singing were up to his usual high standard. Roz Ketith, played by Julie Cassells, really brought out the comedy in the role and her love of Franklin Hart was never lost in the way she idolised him. Her performance of Hart to Hart was well done with excellent comedy timing. Gary Fyfe portrayed a lovely gentle character in the role of Joe, and his performance of Let Love Grow showed lots of empathy and pathos. Gary was well cast in this role and the connection between him and Violet worked well. The supporting cast of principals was of a high standard, and the roles of Kathy, played by Emma Fyfe, and Maria played by Leanne Roarty Smith added to the mix of office life and gossip. Margaret, the office lush, was well executed by Sarah Wilson.

Other significant roles included Dick played by Rossie Stone, David Glen in the role of Dwayne, the ever-loving husband of Doralee, and Tinsworthy, played by Brian Toward. They all brought their individual characters to life in the show.

With a hard-working supporting cast of minor principals and ensemble, we were entertained by all of them and there were some great moments in the fairytale scenes and One of The Boys. This production ran smoothly and use of video projections throughout the production enhanced the overall staging of the show. Well done!

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