‘9 to 5’ review
‘one of, if not the best, shows I have seen in the Assembly Rooms Theatre’
It is truly rare to witness a show bursting with joy, but from the moment Dolly’s signature chords were heard, every second of 9 to 5: The Musical! showcased an innate ability to leave audiences stunned. Following the tale of three women in the workplace combatting their misogynistic boss, DULOG flawlessly undertook the task of lifting audiences with a beautiful score, musically directed by Dan Hicks, and amazing choreography by Tom Carroll and Connie Richardson. Watching the three leading ladies glow under the stage lights was a pleasure, and truly each character and actress came into their own by the end of the show.
Co-directors Henry Skinner and Midun Odunaiya must be complimented on the evident care taken to perfect the musical: their dedication is visible in every aspect of the show, which was chock-full of energy. The innumerable amount of set changes in the show went incredibly smoothly, each one as immersive as the last, so dues must be given to the stage management team, led by Josh Greenwood, and Set Designer Sarah Johnston. 9 to 5 was a show of pure joy and love, which emanated from the pores of the Assembly Rooms Theatre.
Each actor on the stage was of incredible talent and exceptionally casted; the stage was so rich with character, it was difficult to be sure of where to look! Ollie Cochran embodied the character of Franklin Hart Jr. with such conviction, that the audience was startled by his ability to portray the misogynistic villain of the piece, evidently incredibly well done, as audiences were heard to gasp in horror throughout - a testament to his acting ability. The leading ladies were impeccable, and it cannot be stressed enough how talented each one is. Lucy Atkinson’s Violet was so endearing, and her vocal abilities inspired awe. Each note was sung with determination and power, alongside her vulnerable portrayal of the romance between herself and Will Simpson’s Joe.
Alexandra Tyler as Judy captivated the audience with her crisp belt and comedic timing, and her physical comedy added an endearing element to the character. Tyler’s acting prowess and command of the stage was second to none: Tyler was also an incredibly strong vocalist. Maggie Grace Thompson’s Doralee was stunning- her powerful belt and strong stage presence allowed audiences to be deeply engrossed. Her charming and loveable presentation of Doralee, coupled with her polished voice, made her an unforgettable character from the evening- one audiences could not take their eyes off. Together, the three women packed an intense power into the show, and the female unity on the stage was overwhelmingly beautiful to see.
One woman stole the show, Molly Bell as Roz, a character obsessively in love with Franklin Hart. Sending the audience into fits of laughter, and then into applause over her beautifully strong and clear belt, Bell, though causing some degree of emotional whiplash, won the audience's heart. Even amidst some prop issues, Bell distracted the audience with her wonderful control over the performance, laughing with us. She was the unexpected star, and one entirely welcome.
Alongside the aforementioned set changes, the lighting performed by the tech crew was phenomenal- specifically the colour blocking at the end of act 1, spilling red, yellow, and blue onto the stage in accordance with the leading ladies. This powerful motif left audiences with a heightened sense of joy, and wonderfully encapsulated the mood of the musical, and therefore kudos must go to Theo Nellis and George Murray, Lighting Designer and Operator respectively, and Production Manager Tim Millard, as well as the entirety of the technical team.
Final recognition must go to the excellent band, who never fail throughout the entire performance. From the prompt start at half past seven, the band ceased to amaze with their dedication. They were an incredibly impressive group of individuals, and the production would not be complete without them.
This production will forever be the one I envision when thoughts of 9 to 5 come to mind. It was fantastically put together, and a deep love is visibly shared by all involved, not only for the production but for one another. I can safely say I did not want the show to end; it was one of, if not the best show I have seen in the Assembly Rooms Theatre.
By Olivia Shelley.