9 to 5 The Musical

First up a confession, 9 to 5 is one of my favourite shows, so this being the first production I have seen from BAOS meant I was looking forward very much to a fabulous night out. I wasn’t wrong. BAOS embraced the 1970’s world of Consolidated Industries, the sexist, misogynistic workplace of Violet, Judy and Doralee. The performance began with an introduction to the characters by Dolly Parton projected in all her fabulous glory (Yes, I love her too!) Dolly Parton providing the music and lyrics with the book by Patricia Resnick.

The set was simple but effective with most of the set pieces on stage all the time and used in a variety of ways for the different scenes. A balcony area provided some height and ample space which was used to great effect. The cast completed most of the scene changes, clearly well drilled and meaning the multiple scene changes didn’t drag.  I was a little distracted from the action at the point that Hart was put in the bed, so wonder if there may have been a less intrusive way to achieve that change.

Costumes and makeup and hair were all in keeping with the era. The lighting design worked very well and there were no issues with Sound, so well done all.

The three leading ladies worked very well together. Emma Griffiths as the head secretary Violet Newstead, continually overlooked for promotion for her less capable male colleagues was played with confidence, a strong vocal and excellent all-round performance. Judy was played and sung beautifully by Sarah Wilkinson, “Get Out and Stay Out” a highlight for me. I noticed that this was Emma May Jones first lead role in the adult group and what a debut. The role of Doralee is very tricky, I don’t like to see just an impersonation of Dolly Parton, and Emma made this role her own growing in confidence as the show went on.

Alex Milner as Franklin Hart, Jr made me feel appropriately uncomfortable especially in his solo “Here for You” suitably chauvinistic. Becky Hennessey as Roz demonstrated great comedic characterisation. Matt Boyle as Violet’s love interest sung beautifully. There were also some great comic moments from Charlie Cartwright as the office lush Margaret, all the different added touches each time she came on, and the pole dancing!

The ensemble all worked well with enthusiasm. I was particularly impressed with the number of men dancing at a high standard. Choreographer Donna Podesta had some great dancers to work with which enhanced the big ensemble numbers.

The orchestra ably led by Brendan Casey was excellent. I always miss seeing the orchestra perform but appreciate that space often means they need to be hidden away.

Director Mandie Love should be very proud of what she has achieved with this production, an energetic extremely enjoyable night was had by all. Thank you very much for your hospitality I was well looked after by Tina, and I look forward to your next production.

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