9 to 5 The Musical

South Staffs MTC were the first amateur company to perform in the newly refurbished Grand Theatre. The new front of house and bar areas together with ther new seating in the theatre certainly set the scene for the audience attending a new show.

The show is based on the 1980's film starring Dolly Parton. In fact the music and lyrics were written by her.

A story by a woman about women and their lying, bigotted boss Frankin (Simon McGee) who thinks every employee is working just for his enjoyment and satisfaction. A rude awakening comes in the form of three very strong women. Violet (Maria Shee), Judy (Abbie Rai) and Doralee (Lexie Bennett). These three performers hold the show together with their strong voices and good comedy and live out their fantasies getting revenge on Franklin for his constant sexual harrassment in the workplace. The leading ladies were ably supported by stalwart members Roger Stokes (Tinsworth), Zoe Wiltshire (Maria) and Nikki Rai (Margaret) and with support from the chorus and dancers.

A show full of songs, devious plots, fantasies and a take-over of the firm kept the show moving along at a cracking pace. New Musical Director Rob Murray had the orchestra under his control and swift scene changing of the small set meant that the audience had to concentrate to follow the complicated plot.

The company had a difficult week in that one of the leading ladies, Maria Shee, had been ill and lost her voice  during the previous two nights and several members of the cast were not 100% fit. In fact Chairperson Alison Norton's son, Alastair was in hospital during the show. A worrying time for all the members. I am glad to say that on the Civic Night I attended there was no evidence of the problems from the members on stage.

Directed by former Noda Representative, Alf Rai, and with one of the leading ladies, Maria Shee, in charge of the choreography, the show ended happily and I'm sure the audience went home feeling that justice had been done and that one man is no match for 3 very determined women!!

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