Everything you need to know about 9 to 5 The Musical
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Nicholas Ephram Ryan Daniels
(Updated on Dec 18, 2018)
Following the announcement of a West End run at the Savoy Theatre in January 2019, Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 The Musical is causing a stir in the West End. After a successful tour in 2012, the musical was on holiday for nearly 5 years. London audiences were given a short-lived taste of its sweet cup of ambition when it ran at last year’s London Fringe Theatre Festival. With this ‘blockbuster musical’ coming to London for a substantial run we thought you might have some questions.
Pictured: The 9 to 5 2012 UK tour cast starring Jackie Clune as Violet Newstead, Amy Lennox as Doralee Rhodes and Natalie Casey as Judy Bernly
Is 9 to 5 a jukebox musical?
If you've never heard of the hit Dolly Parton musical, then this question makes sense. But the answer is no. While 9 to 5 does feature a soundtrack by world-renowned country singer and songwriter Dolly Parton, it is actually based on the 1980 American comedy film that starred Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Dabney Coleman and the Nashville star herself. Dolly Parton wrote the music and lyrics specifically for the show.
What is 9 to 5 about?
The plot of 9 to 5 sees three women, Doralee, Violet and Judy, who grow increasingly anxious and annoyed with their misogynistic supervisor, Franklin Hart. The trio take matters into their own hands and decide to tie up their boss in revenge. But in their attempt to take back the office and set things right, the CEO makes an unexpected visit. The three ladies soon find that their caper is at risk of being exposed.
Will I recognise any of the songs?
The 9 to 5 opening number is Dolly Parton’s 1980 hit single of the same name, “9 to 5”, which was written for the major motion picture and features lyrics that really make you think, “Is a 9-to-5 job worth it?” Unless you are familiar with the musical or happen to be a huge Dolly Parton fan, the other songs might be new to you, but Dolly doesn’t disappoint! Other notable songs in the 9 to 5 musical include “Backwoods Barbie”, “Cowgirl’s Revenge”, “Heart to Hart” and the inverted “5 to 9”.
Who is in 9 to 5?
The London run of 9 to 5 has announced a stellar cast! Former singer of the R&B group Eternal, Louise Redknapp, will be starring as Violet Newstead. She will be joined on stage by Love Island winner Amber Davies who is making her West End debut as Judy Bernly. The cast are topped off by consummate actress Natalie McQueen who will play Doralee Rhodes, the role originally made famous by Dolly Parton herself. Comedian Brian Conley finishes off the cast as egomaniacal boss Franklin Hart.
Where and when is 9 to 5 supposed to run?
9 to 5 The Musical has announced its run at the West End’s Savoy Theatre, currently the home of Dreamgirls. The initial run is said to be from 28 January 2019 to 31 August 2019 with a tentative press night scheduled for 19 February. Performances will run from Monday through Saturday at 7.30pm with matinee performances at 2.30pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Anything else about 9 to 5 The Musical?
9 to 5 has enjoyed an extensive performance history and was first seen in Los Angles for try-outs at the Center Theatre Group’s Ahmanson Theatre. The show was so successful that it garnered two Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Awards. Following its 2008 world premiere in LA, it opened on Broadway in 2009 and was followed by a sell-out US Tour in 2010 and UK Tour in 2012. The show has been nominated for numerous Tony Awards, Drama Desk Awards and even received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Musical Show Album.
With such astounding success, we simply can’t tap our feet and wait any longer. We are ready to see the colourful 9 to 5 characters come to life on the West End stage!
9 to 5 tickets are on sale now.