Reviewed by Katie Allen
Everyone is aware of the iconic song “9-5” by Dolly Parton and also probably the 1980 film of the same name starring Dolly herself along with Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. I’d never actually watched the film, so I was excited for the musical version to be my first exposure to the story.
As we walked into the theatre we were presented with a huge, glittery, gold “9” “t” and “5” with an alarm clock as the “o” on the stage. It was a stunning set with 80s style PCs framing the entire stage and had many of the packed-out audience busy taking selfies.
Dolly herself appeared, from within the alarm clock, and introduced us to the show and the leading characters with the eponymous song and we were on our way!
The show is underpinned by three leading ladies – Violet Newstead, played by Laura Tyrer, a Senior Office Supervisor at Consolidated Companies and a widowed mum of one. Judy Bernly, played by Amber Davies, a younger woman forced to enter the world of work after her husband leaves her for an even younger woman and Doralee Rhodes, played by Georgina Castle, the CEO’s PA who is looked down on by most of the office because of her looks and the assumption she’s sleeping with the boss. These three are fed up of the blatant sexism in the working world and their repugnant manager, dastardly played by Sean Needham, and grasp the opportunity to make some changes.
I loved the 80s style of the show. The power suits, amazing wigs and the sets are so impactful. I also loved the movement of the theme from the monochromatic beginnings to ALL the colours by the end.
I especially enjoyed the journey Amber Davies took Judy Bernly on. She starts a naïve, timid girl in pastels and ends a strong independent woman who doesn’t need “Dick”. Her song “Get Out and Stay Out” in the second act was a powerful moment and one many women can identify with.
Overall the show was a hoot. A great story, fantastic songs, perfect ensemble and en-pointe leading roles. Try and get to see this show while it’s on tour. You’ll spend all evening smiling!
We love the New Victoria Theatre in Woking. If you’re more used to the older style theatre with small seats and no legroom, then you’ll be pleasantly surprised at this modern space. The theatre itself is within a shopping centre and next to a cinema giving a great atmosphere as you walk into the box office and allowing many options for dinner pre-show. There are bars and toilets on many levels and the middle level had a piano player playing show tunes which added a sophisticated ambiance reminding me of a cruise ship.
We usually drive and park in the Peacock’s shopping centre Multi Storey next door with their flat fee of £1.50 after 7pm – remember to enter the car park after 7pm as the time is stamped as you go through the barrier and if it’s 6:59 you’ll have to pay an additional £1.50.
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £13 (plus £3.65 transaction fee).
9 to 5 The Musical is at the New Victoria Theatre in Woking from 15-19 October 2019, for more information or to book tickets visit www.atgtickets.com/new-victoria-theatre or call the box office on 0844 871 7645.
New Victoria Theatre, The Ambassadors, Peacocks Centre, Woking, Surrey, GU21 6GQ
