In the recent news of our dear Dolly P’s passing, what a fitting way to celebrate her than to see her beloved film turned musical, 9 to 5, on it’s stop in my hometown. I’ve always enjoyed the film – one that me and my gals have seen together, watching in glee as the chaotic revenge plot unfolds.
Hearing Dolly Parton’s intro at the start was bittersweet, brought a tear to my eye and reminded me of all that she did for other people – as well as just being an incredible human being and inspiring rags-to-riches story. It would have been nice to make a tribute in some other way to her in addition to the regular intro, considering she’s only just passed away.
For those who don’t know, this is a joyful story about friendship between three women at an office, Violet (Jade Marvin), Doralee (Karla Tracey) and Judy (Kayla Carter) who one day have some rather interesting drug-addled dreams and then decide to stand up for what’s right – against “the boss man” Mr Hart (Tim Rogers). All of this is set to an irresistible score written by none other than the legend Dolly Parton, herself.
Hart is the ultimate villain – a chauvinistic, full-of-himself, lying, cheating, no-good man who needs taking down a few pegs! Every time he made a comment, all the women in the audience would gasp and it made me laugh so much. Of course, it was all very hyperbolic and saturated – the funniest thing is that nothing he said in isolation would be out of the ordinary for that type of man in real life! Him being such an incredible villain makes it easier to get behind the gals as they concoct their plans to take him down – even if when they do it starts as a total accident.
The stage presence of the actors was incredible, the way they used the stage to mimic corridors was creative and funny, the singing voices were spot on and a special mention goes out to the boss’ right-hand woman Roz (Jessica Martin) who at moments stole the show!
You leave the first half buzzing with feminine rage, keen to learn what will happen next (if you’ve not seen the film, of course!) and leave the end of the show filled with feelings of empowerment and deep joy at a story well told and a bad man shown the door! Not to mention, it’s just outrageously funny! 9 to 5 The Musical is one night at the theatre you won’t want to miss. Thank you to the Belgrade theatre for the invitation to attend and review.
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