9 to 5

Having seen the film, I wasn't sure what to expect from the musical version but it was great!  The storyline is fun and who could blame those three girls for wanting to make sure that the boss got his just deserts and he certainly did! 

Keith & Teresa Smith, Director and Choregrapher and MD Carl Greenwood all did an excellent job and had a very talented cast to work with. The orchestra made a great sound and although loud (just as the sound should be) they never overpowered the singers. 

What a great trio of girls!  Hannah Poynter as Doralee Rhodes, Nikki Leach as Judy Bernly and Anita Garai as Violet Newstead all worked so well together giving their all in planning the downfall of the boss - Franklin Hart.  Phil Poole's characterisation of this less than charming man was spot on. Who could like a man like this?  Well, actually Roz Keith did and this over the top character was played by Rebecca Bruce, giving us a love starved lady of older years who absolutely adored him!  Every little look and movement from these two characters was so well acted and timed. 

There are some really good songs in this show, all very well put over, but I really loved "Let Love Grow," the duet between Joe and Violet. Warren Goddard played Joe and he and all those playing the smaller parts were a very vital part of the proceedings, together with all those in the energetic ensemble. The ideal moveable scenery was dealt with in very slick fashion by the crew, and costumes, hair and makeup were all very 1970's. The programme was, as usual, very well set out with good use of colour and all involved are to be congratulated on bringing this exciting musical to Eastbourne.

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