9 to 5 the Musical (Norbury Players)

It's a crackpot scheme surely to kidnap your boss and hold him hostage while you turn the workplace into a much more accommodating, considerably less sexist and frankly nicer place to be. Perhaps so but, if your boss happens to be the egotistical, misogynistic Franklin Hart Jr (played with a glint in his eye by Dean Bayliss) then maybe you've made the right choice.

Lead protagonist in this take-over is much put upon single parent Violet Newstead (an increasingly powerful portrayal by Lorna Tipple) who reaches breaking point at pretty much the same time as Hart's secretary Doralee Rhodes (played by Holly Hay, giving Ms Parton a run for her money) and nervous newcomer Judy Bernly (a voice that 'shines like the sun' from Louisa Ford).

However these things are never easy and there are always obstacles to overcome, the most complex of which is the woman smitten with the undoubted although somewhat hidden charms of Hart and that is Roz Keith (played with unbounding energy and a mighty vocal by Sophie Handy) and of course Violet's persistent love interest Joe (played by Nathan Wilde who also takes on the pivotal role of Director, proving it is possible to do both and do them well).

This is a feelgood piece that makes a number of important points that hopefully aren't prevalent in business these days and further confirms that the underdog can win and the persecuted can rise to the top if they really want to get out there and 'Change It'.

Some highlights to watch out for:

  • Amy Howell's convincing performance as inebriate Margaret, both the before and after are incredibly well played.
  • Stunning performance of 'Get Out and Stay Out' by Louisa Ford, not necessarily a show-stopping number but, definitely a show-stopping performance.
  • Choreography that links the performance together well, thanks to Lead Dance Captain - Victoria Lake, Dance Captains -  Amy Howell, Ellen Fearnley, Julia Jones and Megan Harrington and an engaging performance from the whole cast.
If you're looking for something after your '9 to 5', perhaps a night that entertains and informs, then head on down to the Norbury Theatre in Droitwich and you won't be disappointed, performances run through to 23rd October 2021.


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