Written by Marilyn Anderson "9 to 5: The Musical," which opened September 9th at the Ahmanson Theatre, is based on the hit 1980 comedy movie Nine to Five, starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin and Dolly Parton. Staying true to the original story, the show revolves around three secretaries in a male-dominated company, who decide to get revenge on their tyrannical, misogynistic boss.
Gracing the stage in the current version are three multi-talented lead actresses. Allison Janney, best known for her Emmy award-winning role in TV's "West Wing," appears in the part originally played by Lily Tomlin. Janney is perfect as the smart, strong Violet, ringleader of the secretarial pool. She's both commanding and endearing throughout, Filling Dolly Parton's shoes (or her bra!) had to be a challenge; but actress Megan Hilty is an ideal fit, contributing her own delightful charm and powerful singing voice. As Doralee, she delivers her fetching femininity with a lilt and a country twang, most notably in the song "Backwoods Barbie." Rounding out the threesome is Stephanie J. Block, who plays Judy, the office "newbie," the role originated by Jane Fonda in the movie. Block brings down the house with her song, "Get Out and Stay Out." In a supporting role, Kathy Fitzgerald is a hoot as Roz, the office snitch. Her musical number, "5 to 9" (so named for the hours after and before work), in which she professes her love for the boss, is a clever and fun switch on the "9 to 5" theme. Along with the five fab femmes, three "super" men were instrumental in bringing "9 to 5: The Musical" to the stage: Robert Greenblatt, producer; Joe Mantello, director; and Andy Blankenbuehler, choreographer. Continuing the recent trend of turning movies into musicals, "9 to 5" is a natural. Now 28 years after its debut, this farcical fantasy about women in the workplace still works . . . and works wonderfully! The production is on its way to Broadway, where it is set to open at the Marriott Marquis Theatre in April 2009. My recommendation is to catch the pre-Broadway world premiere in Los Angeles. It runs until October 19th at the Ahmanson Theatre. So be sure to take some play time away from your 9 to 5 schedule to see "9 to 5: The Musical." This is one new show where you will definitely come out singing the title song! "9 to 5: The Musical" Center Theatre Group |
whether barking orders in her office clothes, singing and strutting in a white man-tailored suit for a sensational number, "One of the Boys," or sashaying about in an amusing cartoon sequence where she's dressed like Snow White. 
