9 To 5 The Musical At Aylesbury Waterside Theatre Review

Reviewed by Sandra McGhee

I was both delighted and excited to receive the news that I was invited to the press opening night for the above musical on behalf of What’s Good To Do. Upon entering the reception foyer there was instant buzz and great atmosphere with lots of people eager to return to the theatre after so long. I was very impressed with receiving my e-tickets and arrival information in plenty of time advising on required entry relating to COVID, this was reassuring knowing that entry was taking very seriously with everyone’s safety paramount.

Straight from The Savoy Theatre, West End (no wonder sold out previously) based on the 1980s movie which fabulous Dolly Parton appeared in.

The opening scene involved Dolly Parton talking about the characters and story on a video, this she dipped in and out throughout the evening and was a nice add. The Musical illustrates the story of 3 work colleagues pushed to boiling point by their sexist and ego boss who they all hate so much and plot to kill him. It’s a great believable story and I’m sure the scenes did happen in real life back in the eighties, the boss was a typical male chauvinist pig and there were plenty around in that era in the eighties. (note – this is the reviewer’s opinion)

The musical was a great pleasure to see, so much fun and full of laughter. I must say I wasn’t prepared to laugh so much, some of the scenes were shocking and quite rude, jaw stopping and if you need a good giggle I would go just to get this laugher prescription as you are guaranteed to laugh and laugh out loud, very entertaining and funny. Some real good jokes and bad ones too!

The beautiful Louise Redknapp played Violet and was brilliant from start to end. Vivian Panka played Judy, it was lovely seeing her character grow and come to life after being quite timid at the start, amazing voice sang so beautifully and powerful. The whole cast was full of energy and enthusiasm. My favourite character was Doralee played by Stephanie Chandos. Big shout out to Sean Needham who played Mr Hart Jnr and Julia Nagle starring as Roz Keith, such a brilliant character and her scene where she undresses and dances amazing. I would like to share some of the naughty scenes but wouldn’t want to spoilt it (just to give a hint if you have read 50 shades of grey springs to mind)! You need to go and see for yourself how funny this show really is. I certainly didn’t expect so much humour and smut. The opening scene you really need to pay attention as you could miss some naughtiness. All the costumes were real vintage 80s style, very colourful and the sets all very impressive especially the bedroom scene with grand diamond chandelier.

Atmosphere was incredible and at the end of the show most of the audience was up singing. Highly recommend you check this show out for yourself.

Rating: 4.5/5

Tickets cost from £13 – £3.65 transaction fee – Age recommendation 12+ (I would say more like 16+) Available from 28th September until Saturday 2nd October 2021

For more information or to book tickets please visit https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/9-to-5-the-musical/aylesbury-waterside-theatre/calendar/ or call the box office on 0844 871 7615.

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Bucks, HP20 1UG