9 to 5: The Musical in WA

Take a coffee break and enjoy toe-tapping tunes in 9 to 5: The Musical at Don Russell Performing Arts Centre this November!

It’s time to tumble out of bed, stumble to the kitchen, and pour yourself a cup of ambition - iconic ‘80s film 9 to 5 is coming to the stage in a production by local theatre company Art in Motion.

Set in the late ‘70s, coworkers and friends Violet, Judy and Doralee are concocting a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical hypocrite they unfortunately call their boss. Hilarity ensues as they attempt to keep the peace (and keep him distracted), all while transforming their office into a positive place for all of its employees.

9 to 5: The Musical premiered on Broadway in 2009 and features music and lyrics from iconic country musician Dolly Parton, with songs including ‘Backwoods Barbie’, ‘Get Out and Stay Out’, and of course, ‘9 to 5’.

Sarah McCabe is taking on the lead role of Violet Newstead and said she is excited for audiences to see this vibrant production.

“The show has so many amazing Dolly Parton tunes - some you will know, some you won’t - but all will have you tapping your feet and clapping your hands,” Sarah said.

Mary Carter, who plays office snitch Roz, echoed this.

“Audiences can expect hilarious characters, big dance numbers, a familiar story and the incredible music and lyrics by Dolly Parton herself,” Mary said.

“Fans of the original movie should come along to indulge in a few hours of funny and often inspiring moments that highlight the strength of women even in the face of adversity.”

Aaron Lucas takes on the villain role of Franklin Heart, who he describes as a walking, talking of sexism and bigotry with a dash of Ron Burgundy’s over-the-top flair.

“He’s the guy who mixes outdated opinions with an inflated ego and somehow manages to turn every conversation into an awkward comedy show,” Aaron said.

“Picture a self-styled ‘expert’ who stumbles through life with all the grace of a giraffe on roller skates: his pompous proclamations are as cringe-worthy as they are hilariously misguided. His antics may be infuriating, but they’re also a guaranteed laugh riot.”

Director Lys Tickner said the themes of empowerment and feminism attracted her to take on this production.

“I was looking for a fun-filled musical that was empowering for the predominantly female cast, while also not being too serious in the delivery of its message. It’s fantastic to watch these ordinary women transform into workplace revolutionaries,” Lys said.

9 to 5: The Musical plays at 7:30pm November 1, 8 and 9, 2pm November 2, and 4pm November 10. Ticket pricing $34-$39. Book at bit.ly/9to5DRPAC.

Images (From top): Chauvinistic boss Franklin Heart (Aaron Lucas) gets his comeuppance from Doralee (Jen Gadeke), Judy (Stacey Gobey) and Violet (Sarah McCabe) in the musical 9 to 5 presented by Art in Motion Theatre Company; Gadeke, Sarah McCabe and Stacey Gobey (L-R) breathing life into office workers set on overthrowing their boss; and Sarah McCabe plays Violet, the mastermind behind the plot to overthrow her boss (Photos: Curtain Call Creatives).