9 to 5 - The Musical

I know what life can be like after divorce, and what starting a new job can be like. This is the start of “9 to 5”, with Catherine Mackenzie’s portrayal as Judy Bernly showed well. Her re-introduction to work after quite a long time and to her work colleagues, Violet (Maureen Todd) and Doralee (a welcome return to the stage by Monique Alexander) shows her that some executives have to be watched, particularly scheming Franklin Hart Jnr. (Andrew Rodger) whose high opinion of himself as a lover was not shared by others. The girls plan various schemes, some wilder than others, with the assistance(?) of some drugs, but eventually succeed in improving work and output, earning promotion for them and an overseas move for Hart. This adaptation, approved by Dolly Parton herself, of the film of the same name was in a way a motley collection of characters thrown together in a work situation, but giving a clear message about male/female relationships.  There was pathos and humour, drama and good movement with many smaller parts holding the whole show together, with Morven McCallum (Kathy), Laura Moore (Roz), Graeme Southwood (Dick), Ghyll McCallum (Detective) and Jonathan Proctor (Big Boss Tinsworthy) showing the way. Some real drama was that one mechanical prop caused an injury to one of the main characters, who was rushed to hospital but fortunately recovered enough to complete the rest of the performances. In all, a bright show with a clear message, some well-known songs and potential for most amateur clubs to present a relatively up-to-date production.

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