9 to 5 - The Musical

An opening video link from the iconic Dolly Parton herself welcomed the audience and introduced the show. The company then launched into a most vibrant opening number ‘9 to 5’ where the pace was set with fabulous choreography and powerful singing. The story, based on the film of the same name, really aims to convince us that women can achieve as much if not more than men in the workplace and is largely dependent on having 3 good female leads. This production certainly had a fantastic, formidable trio. Violet who has always been overlooked for promotion in the office was brilliantly played by Pauline Dickson who demonstrated brashness and determination in her character bringing out the subtle humour but also displaying her sensitive, caring side in her scenes with Joe (Gareth Brown). Her number “ One of the Boys” was sung with gusto and power whilst the duet 'Let Love Grow' showed tenderness and was very well sung by Gareth who tugged at the heart strings trying to convince Violet that perhaps she should move on with her relationship issues and give him a chance.

Jo Heinemeier displayed a real vulnerability as the insecure Judy going through a marriage breakup and arriving at the office with no secretarial experience. However it didn’t take long for her to get rid of her insecurities and gain enough confidence to tell her husband to ‘Get Out and Stay Out ‘ when he tried to win her back. A meaningful number delivered with absoloute conviction. Kat Croan had the almost unenviable task of playing Doralee, the Dolly Parton look a like but here too was yet another very fine characterisation. Her appearance, accent and assured performance were top notch. ‘Backwards Barbie‘ was very good indeed. Although these 3 characters were totally different personalities, they complemented each other and were a superb team. Their scene fantasizing about how to get rid of their sexist boss was extremely well put across by the girls and the ensemble. I must say I found Snow White and the dwarfs hilarious.

The seedy boss, Franklin Hart, was very well played by Colin Cairncross. He certainly convinced us that he was a real male chauvinist who fancied his chances particularly in his number ‘Here For You’ with his sleezy moves and arrogant air, but the contrast to the defeated little man was well portrayed. His only faithful staff member, Roz (Kirsten Simpson), made a very interesting transition from dowdy secretary to sexy lady in 'Heart to Heart'. There were many other supporting principals all of whom are worthy of praise.

I must also congratulate the entire ensemble in this production. The superb choreography throughout was creative and imaginative and was delivered with slickness and vitality by all on stage. Singing too was gutsy and backed by a supportive orchestra who never over stepped the mark drowning out the singers. Set changes were unobtrusive and costumes in keeping witht the piece.

This was altogether a first class, uplifting production which was well deserving of the audience appreciation and did absolutely ‘Shine Like the Sun’.

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