Picture: Simon Turtle
9 To 5 The Musical continues at the Milton Keynes Theatre until 28 September 2019 and then tours until 5 September 2020.
Star rating: five stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
9 To 5 the movie is legendary, with the infectious theme song and all-star cast of Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. It’s therefore understandable that an audience would have high expectations for how this much-loved film could be translated onto the stage – myself included. But, luckily, every effort is made to create a production as funny, crude and enjoyable, tailored to the stage with its own unique twists. Parton is even tastefully weaved into the show, introducing the characters and setting the scene. The one aspect that does differ is the nature of some the jokes and explicit innuendoes – perhaps not suitable for anyone under the age of 12 or so.
Brian Conley delivers pure comic value with his interpretation of Franklin Hart Jr, especially during his individual scenes during which the audience is howling with laughter. Georgina Castle is also deserving of praise for her stand-out performance as Doralee. Possibly the toughest part to act, having to follow in the footsteps of such a well-known character, yet Castle has made this role her own, with the best voice of the cast and a stage presence that dominates.
The show has slick production values to rival the West End staging, smoothly moving from scene to scene with a buoyant and bubbly cast engaging the audience and making the two-and-half-hours flash by in a blur. The dance routines are great, particularly Louise Redknapp’s feature piece that is so well put together. It feels like watching a music video.
By the end of the show, the whole audience is up dancing and cheering and you will be guaranteed to leave the theatre on a high. For a feel-good, fun night, book tickets to see 9 To 5!
Hannah Grimmette
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