9 to 5 - The Musical

Playing to full houses for their usual Easter spot this Society certainly delivered a winner again with
their production of this well-known musical.
The opening number certainly set the benchmark for the action to come as the entire ensemble took to
the stage dressed in various forms of night attire, some more revealing than others, and one
particularly “uplifting”, as they “tumbled out of bed, and yawned and stretched and tried to come to life”!
Throughout the number the cast weaved in and out of the wings making lightning costume changes
until all were fully dressed and ready to face the day! This theme continued throughout the show, fast
paced routines with countless costume and set changes, life must have been exceedingly busy
backstage!
The story centred on three very different female employees at the office of “Consolidated” as they
concocted a plan to turn the tables on their sexist, lying, hypocritical boss, and create a more
conducive working environment.
This was very much an ensemble production, packed with fantastic chorus numbers and solos, and the
different characters of each performer shone through.
The leads played their roles to perfection. Franklin Hart was just excellent as the sleazy boss, the
epitome of male chauvinism who in the end certainly got his come-uppance and was well outsmarted
by the three “girls”, who were all superb in their roles!
Doralee was a sassy “simple country girl”, and very much made the part her own! Seemingly naïve she
strived to break through the hierarchy of office politics to no avail, but realising they thought
erroneously that she was having an affair with Frank she was able to put them straight and gain their
trust, proving that she was no “Backwoods Barbie”!
Judy was perfectly gauche as the shy awkward “newbie” complete with posh frock and white gloves,
again very well played. While Violet, always overlooked for promotion, was determined and steadfast
until the end, and was successful in transforming the company and creating “a life without dick”. This
was a solid, believable performance and very much the lynchpin of the proceedings.
The fantasy scenes from these three performers with the supporting ensemble were just superb!
Playing for the “management” side “jobsworth” Roz was on top form! Always with her eye on the boss,
her solo number as she slipped effortless into a stunning Basque simply brought the house down!
Another stunning performance!

The main characters were supported superbly throughout by the whole ensemble and there were also
some credible cameo performances.
Accountant Joe was sympathetic to the cause helping to obtain incriminating evidence against Frank.
Margaret the office “lush” was convincingly played, and others pitched in making believable
characters, a CEO, cops, partners etc. There was a memorable moment when the Doctor bounced on
to announce “he’s dead”!
The costumes throughout were excellent, perfect for every character, black pants and red suspenders,
cowboy boots and checked shirts spring to mind, with as already mentioned some amazing quick
changes that defied the eye! Frank’s shoes also made their mark!
Set changes were smoothly managed and the lighting effects complemented the different moods.
The direction was inspired, the choreography slick and excellently performed, and this together with an
experienced Musical Director , a talented orchestra, an energetic, enthusiastic cast, and crew made
for a fantastic and rapturously received show!
Well done!

Any observation made by the reviewer can only be based on what they see at the
performance in question.  The reviewer may have received information in advance of the
performance, and it is inevitable that their assessment will be affected by that knowledge.
The N.O.D.A. Representative’s intention is to give an objective critique of the overall
production and in particular the performance viewed.  It should be remembered that any
review of this nature can only be objective as far as the techniques used during the
performance observed.  Any criticisms expressed may not have been valid at other
performances and are only made to encourage higher standards in Amateur Theatre.
It is hoped that the audience’s appreciation of your efforts will have given everyone a lift and
encouraged you to greater achievements in the future and that the observations made by the
reviewer will prove helpful in improving future productions.

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