⭐⭐⭐⭐ Tonight the cast of Dolly Parton’s, 9 to 5, The Musical, took to the stage of the wonderful Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, where it will call home until Saturday 20th November 2021.
9 to 5 tells the story of three work friends, Violet (Louise Redknapp), Judy (Vivian Panka) and Doralee (Stephanie Chandos) who are sick and tired of their pompous and downright sexist boss Franklin Hart Jnr (Richard Taylor Woods) who is an utter creep (there’s always one in an office, right?). Together the trio hatch a plan to get rid of him, to make a better working environment, holding him hostage in his very own S&M bedroom… does it go to plan? You’ll have to get tickets to see.
With a real 80s feel; Think – bright colours, retro computer monitors and hair styles that you’ll remember your mum having, coupled with plenty of opportunities to laugh and tap your feet along to Dolly Parton’s amazing score. A ticket to watch this musical will give you a real feel-good evening out with a little bit of naughtiness that will have everyone chuckling.
Louise Redknapp performs brilliantly as Violet. Her acting as frustrated Violet is second to none and her rendition of “One of the Boys” had me captivated. Her finesse as a dancer really shines through in this well choreographed piece (by Lisa Stevens) that I really wanted to jump on stage and join in with, although no one would need to see that from me with two left feet. Lisa Stevens has created some incredibly fast-paced and lively routines for the show, that compliment the singing perfectly.
The score is marvellous and has all the Dolly Parton feels. The 9 to 5 song is the best and most frequently played tune but there’s a real charm in the songs “I Just Might” and “Backwoods Barbie” and you’ll have a little giggle to “Here for You”, where Richard Taylor Woods performs pelvic thrusts that are sure to give me nightmares tonight. Obviously, I jest. It is within the score that Vivian Panka really shines with her rendition of true power ballad “Get Out and Stay Out”. What a voice!
Stephanie Chandos is full of charm and a delight to watch, as she portrays the role of Doralee (this is the role originally played by Dolly Parton herself). I think everyone needs a friend like Doralee.
The show featured video clips from the one and only Dolly Parton and they are a really welcome addition. In her usual playful self, she has the audience in the palm of her hand, even from a pre recorded video screen.
I had a fabulous evening watching 9 to 5. It is a real sassy, snazzy and fun musical. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
To book tickets, click here.
Tonight was also the launch of ATG’s Local Heroes. ATG’s way of saying a huge thank you to all the local heroes including teachers, social care workers, prison officers, armed forces and blue light professionals, 25% off the ticket price on a wide variety of shows. For more details, please click here.
Disclaimer: We were invited along to the press showing. All thoughts and opinions are entirely our own. Photographs are by the talented, Pamela Raith Photography.