“Tumble out of bed and stumble to the kitchen….” And once you’ve done that, head over to the Theatre Royal this week for a high-energy, crowd-pleasing zinger of a show which will leave you humming and grinning like a newly-promoted CEO.
Bath Operatic and Dramatic Society performing 9 to 5 The Musical | Photo © Stewart McPherson
9 to 5 started life as a successful film in 1980, complete with Dolly Parton’s well-loved title track, and then found new life as a stage musical with songs by Parton herself. She’s also the first to speak in this production, acting as narrator via video.
The story – three female office workers banding together when they discover that they’re all falling victim to their sleazy misogynistic manager, and taking a bizarre revenge – can feel a little dated these days, but provides great roles for four actors to shine – and in this production by Bath Operatic and Dramatic Society, they do that and more.
As Doralee, Hannah Graham is a perfect blend of Dolly Parton and Marilyn Monroe, with beautiful vocals and an excellent Texan accent.
As newbie Judy, Kate Lodite starts appropriately nervous but blossoms into a stunning rendition of Get Out and Stay Out.
Sabrina Messer as widow Violet brings great humanity and spirit to her role, and her beautifully acted scene and song with nervous suitor Joe (George Miles), Let Love Grow, is a genuinely moving highlight.
And Pip Knowles as the endlessly on-heat manager Hart somehow still gets the audience on his side with his childish playfulness and sheer joy of being a strutting sleazo.
The smaller roles and ensemble are similarly performed with evident zest by this committed company and are well supported by musical director James Finbow’s on-point orchestra which thankfully avoids the frequent issue in shows of the music drowning out the songs.
Director Tristan Carter keeps the show rattling along with impressive pace and energy, filling scene changes with cameos from the ensemble so we are never distracted, and Lizzie Andrews’ choreography is bright, bouncy and seamless.
Impressive work too from costume managers Julia Padfield and Jacqui Cook, delivering a seemingly endless parade of excellent colourful costumes, with some lightning changes.
9 to 5 is a total treat, a polished professional blend of broad humour and tender moments, with stand-out performances. Just set your out-of-office message on your computer and go.
9 to 5 is showing at Theatre Royal Bath until 2nd March. Box office: 01225 448844.
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Reviewer: Steve Huggins
