Dolly Parton has brought the live musical version of the hit 1980 film, 9 to 5, to Melbourne. After a spectacular run in Sydney and Brisbane, this musical has opened at the Arts Centre’s State Theatre. Filled with an all-star Australian cast, this sparkling show follows the lives of three women, Doralee, Violet and Judy, and the unexpected series of events that leads to them kidnapping and holding their horrible boss hostage. This musical will stay in town until Sunday September 18.
9 to 5 the Musical by Dolly Parton
From the moment the show starts, you know you’re in good hands, as a pre-recorded video of Dolly Parton herself welcomes you to the show. The show is packed full of fun and exciting songs, with the score created by Dolly herself.
The strong cast brings the show to life. The iconic Marina Prior shines as Violet Newstead, a career woman who is overlooked as an office manager. Prior has a commanding and reassuring presence on stage, and gives you someone to root for with her ambition and drive. Her rendition of One of the Boys is awe-inspiring.
Casey Donovan stars as Judy Bernly, a sweet, newly-separated woman who’s never worked in a company before. Her kind nature and naivety deliver some comedic moments throughout the show, and her powerful vocals in the song Get Out and Stay Out drew some members of the audience to their feet in an uproarious standing ovation.
Meanwhile, Erin Clare plays Doralee Rhodes, the stand-in character for Dolly, and the secretary for the misogynistic boss. It’s always hard play a role that’s tied to such an iconic figure, but Clare does Dolly justice, and is absolutely fierce on stage.
However, the boss Franklin Hart Jnr, played by Eddie Perfect, is cartoonish at times with his egotistical villainy. That’s more due to the lines rather than Perfect’s performance. Whether he’s harassing his staff members or keeping the Boys’ Club culture alive, he’s an easy character to hate. But, that’s what makes his comeuppance incredibly satisfying. Perfect also nails some truly comedic moments throughout the show, including one unforgettable moment just before intermission.
Finally, the other stand-out role of busy-body admin assistant, Roz Keith, is played hilariously by Caroline O’Connor. She had the audience in stitches with her over-the-top, unrequited affection for the boss, and her performance of Heart to Hart, in which she vividly imagines a love life with Hart, is an unforgettable riot.
Overall, the musical is filled with fun moments, and makes for a joyful night out.
“The response to 9 to 5 from around the world has been incredible so far,” said Dolly Parton. “I can’t wait for everyone down under to have a fun (and funny!) night out at 9 to 5.”