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“9 to 5” The Musical
By Tony Reverditto
This updated, innovative musical version based on the 1980, 20th Century Fox Motion Picture release is making its world premier at the Ahmanson Theatre and is extremely entertaining and uplifting.
But first, let's take a journey back to a more "innocent" time. Rem-ember, when Jimmy Carter was president, earth tones were "in", electric typewriters were considered cutting-edge, fashion was in a terrible transition, and the vulgar men in the work place had open season to slap a secretaries' butt while muttering sexual slurs? Thus the theme of "9 to 5:
The Musical.
Here's a refresher on the storyline and original cast of the film script. Recently divorced and workforce challenged, Judy Bernly (originally played by Jane Fonda), finesses her way into an office job with zero experience. Through an aggravating turn of events, she soon becomes pals with fellow secretaries, Violet Newstead, (portrayed by Lily Tomlin), who takes Judy under her wing and, the misunderstood; Doralee Rhodes (played by none other than, Dolly Parton). Their boss, the epitome of a married, low-down, male chauvinist pig, Franklin Hart Jr. (played by Dabney Coleman) entitles himself to sexually harass the voluptuous Doralee. All three gals are fed up with office politics, and all walk out early. They decide to go to Violets and smoke a joint (that her son gave her) and each fantasizes about how they would take revenge on their crude boss.
How well does this movie translate into a Musical? Very well, thanks to mischievously thoughtful music and lyrics of the unsinkable, seven-time Grammy winner, Dolly Parton. Dolly does a bang up job of turning this story in to a musical. The lively pace, ingenuity and colorful direction is by none other than the Tony Award winning Director, Joe Mantello. His insightful work is beautifully complimented by the crisp and creative choreography of Andy Blankenuehler, and magnificent Music Direction of Stephen Oremus.
Emmy Award®-winner of West Wing and Tony Award®-nominee Allison Janney stars as Violet Newstead and gives a solid performance. Janney seemed in her element and pulls off the several songs that she sings. The frazzled divorcée Judy Bernly is splendidly played by Stephanie J. Block. She takes her character through the biggest transformation, from dowdy housewife to a classy diva songstress (in a fantasy, of course). Bernly delivers a hair-raising, phenomenal performance of "Get Out and Stay Out" when her ex-husband comes begging to take her back. Filling out the trio (in more ways then one) is Megan Hilty as Doralee Rhodes who truly captured the essence of the role Dolly Parton originated. Milty, the whole package, was my favorite as the cute-as-a-button firecracker who can belt out a song with the best of them and does in "Backwoods Barbie". She interacts well with the boss, Franklin Hart, Jr. (Tony Award®-nominee Marc Kudif .as the bigoted, obnoxious boss nails the role, is frickin' hilarious and an amazing physical comedian.
The supporting cast should be commended on their versatility and professionalism. Most are triple threats, strongly shining through in their acting, singing and especially dance performances. Another stand-out performance is by Roz (Kathy Fitzgerald) as the up-tight, over-the hill office manager. She brings on the laughs as she sings "5 to 9", which describes her life outside the office hour, as she yearns to be lovers with the boss.
Scenic design is by the masterful, Scott Pask and costume designer, William Ivey Long captures the vintage period clothing authentically. The true heroes for me were the Imaging and lighting Designers for the huge LED screen, Peter Nigrini, Jules Fisher, and Peggy Eisenhauer. If it were not for the talents of the fantastic graphic designs created for the backdrop the show, it would not be nearly on the same level of excitement.
9 to 5: The Musical launches the 42nd season of the always amazing Ahmanson Theatre through October 19, 2008.
Tickets for "9 to 5: The Musical" are currently available only through the Ahmanson Theatre's 2008-2009 subscription season. For season ticket information, call (213) 972-4444 or visit www.Center-TheatreGroup.org.