9 To 5 The Musical At Nottingham Theatre Royal Review

Reviewed by Debbie Lowndes

I was completely delighted to be given the opportunity to attend Nottingham Theatre Royal last night to see the theatre production of Dolly Patron’s, Working 9 to 5 The Musical. Following long periods of the country being house bound and not being able to go out out. It was even more of a pleasure to attend, and it was also very reassuring to see a busy Theatre on a Tuesday evening. It is great to see life returning to some form normality and people having fun.

Dolly Parton created the 9 to 5 movie and soundtrack in 1978. The famous 9 to 5 song intro of finger nail tapping transfers to the stage within the Musical as it tours the UK. If you go to see this production be sure to listen out for it. This musical is certainty one to singalong to and you are sure to encounter some fun and laughter. There was a great atmosphere in Nottingham Theatre last night!

The songs featured within the musical will be known to many, and include 9 to 5, Here for You, Always a Woman and One of the Boys to name a few. One of my personal favourites from the show has to be Backwoods Barbie sang by Doralee and the female ensemble, followed closely behind by Get Out and Stay out sang by the beautiful kind hearted Judy.

The story follows the film and is easy to follow, and the fun unfolds in front of your eyes. You will encounter many laughs and sexy scenes along the way, believe me you will hear the roar of belly laughs throughout the whole Musical. I heard frequent comments throughout the performance amongst the audience saying it was so much fun! The whole cast was amazing with many different characters and unique personalities. There was everything from professional smart power dressing to sexy slinky clothes through to bondage, it was true entertainment.

The scenes for the Musical worked well on the stage and were very interchangeable. There were stylish, classy and really made you feel that your were in that environment. The basis of the story is to prove that women are just strong as a men and they capable of holding down high powered jobs.

The dancing through the musical is high energy, completely in sink and eye catching. Well done it is difficult to maintain this level of stamina throughout, but they did and never faulted.

I do not want to give too much away in relation to the specifics, as I am not wanting to spoil for potential visitors. However, I have to say the kidnapping and plotting was most enjoyable parts for me. The three key ladies Louise Rednapp, Vivian Panka and Stephanie Chandon were second to none and gave a memorable performance. I loved how you saw their friendship grow, it was fun and so touching at times.

I must also mention that Mr Hart played by Sean Needham played a great womaniser and clearly displayed his lack of respect for women throughout the performance. I am pleased to say karma came in the end and Hart got what he really did deserve. This is one show raunchy and amusing performance. I would never get tired of seeing this musical.

Another highlight for me was Dolly popping in and out on the screen throughout – well done I never stopped smiling or laughing.

Nottingham Theatre Royal is located in Nottingham City Centre. The area offer numerous car parks very close by and are responsibly priced and there is also a great city centre tram network. The theatre felt covid secure and safe. The interval refreshment options were great and there was a wide choice bars were easy to locate and offered an efficient service. Toilets are clean and easily located and accessible. .All the staff and the majority of the audience wore masks while moving around the theatre.

Our seats were in the stalls centre stage we could not of wished for a better view.

9 to 5 The Musical runs at Nottingham Theatre Royal until the 30th October 2021 and ticket prices start from £19.50.

Rating: I would rate this Musical as a definite 5 star.

Go and have some fun at Nottingham Royal seeing Dolly’s 9 to 5 Musical – it will not disappoint!!!

For more information or to book tickets please visit here.