In Seattle Musical Theater’s latest production, 9 to 5, the hit 1980 film starring Dolly Parton is brought to the stage in what’s sure to be a fun night out for audiences who grew up watching the movie or for any musical aficionado.
Directed and choreographed by Jessica Low, this musical follows the lives of three secretaries, Violet (Jeannette LeGault), Doralee (Jasmine Jean Sim) and Judy (Melissa Fleming) who come together to seek justice from their sexist bigot of a boss, Mr. Hart (Jeff Church). Of course, with loads of singing and dancing throughout.
The production opens up with the three leading ladies coming out and addressing the audience directly – a unique touch. “Tonight we’re going back to 1979,” the year where technology wasn’t as advanced and apples and blackberries were things you’d pick in your backyard, the ladies explained earning them a wholehearted chuckle from the audience.
Right from the opening number, “9 to 5”, you can immediately tell a lot of work was put into the choreography and nailing ever single note. You have cast members leaping in total synchronization with each other as they sing about the pain of having to go to work in the morning – something many can relate to.
While at times it seemed as though the live band and actors were competing for attention, it did make it slightly difficult to hear every word the actors were singing, but vocally speaking, the actors did a fine job with Dolly Parton’s songs which is no easy feat.
Melissa Fleming stood out in role as Judy, the newly divorced secretary newbie, partially because she’s a fantastic actress, but also because her voice is nothing short of incredible. In Act Two’s number, “Get Out and Stay Out”, she captivates the audience as she hits high note after high note while truly showing us Judy’s transformation from dependant housewife to fully fledged independent woman who’s not afraid to speak her mind. It’s definitely one of the shining moments of this production.
Another standout moment is the daydream sequence with the three main characters in which they envision the way they’d most like to kill their boss, Mr. Hart. This comes after a hilarious scene of the three getting high together at Violet’s place. Each actress then gets her own solo song as she details her scenario of killing Mr. Hart complete with costumes and dancing. Once again, the choreography in these scenes is spectacular.
As a general rule of thumb, get prepared to laugh during this show. A lot. Laced with funny one-liners such as, “Just do it? That would make a great slogan for something,” which references to the popular shoe company, Nike. Some of the songs are so absurdly silly that you’ll be laughing all throughout like during Mr. Hart obsessed secretary, Roz’s song, “Heart to Hart.” If you’re a fan of silly, raunchy humor then this is a show you won’t want to miss.
As you find yourself rooting for these determined ladies to finally put Mr. Hart in his place, you’ll see that this musical is about way more than just seeking revenge; it’s about female empowerment and the friendships that arise as a result. It’s a show that’ll make you smile, laugh and hum along to the songs long after you leave the theater.
9 to 5, a Seattle Musical Theater production directed by Jessica Low. At 7120 62nd Ave NE in Seattle through March 13. For tickets visit vendidi.com