Review: 9 to 5 The Musical

Last night we headed to the Palace Theatre in Manchester for the opening night of 9 to 5 the Musical. Inspired by the cult 80s film and brought to you by Dolly herself, the West End production is now touring right across the UK.

9 to 5 the Musical shares the tale of three female colleagues (Doralee, Violet and Judy) who, driven to extreme measures, devise a plan to turn the tables on their self-centred, arrogant boss. However, an unexpected visit from the CEO puts a spanner in the works as they attempt to reform their office.

Undoubtedly, the success of the show is down to the outstanding female-led cast who will keep you laughing throughout and leave you in awe with their incredible vocal range. Louise Redknapp, Georgina Castle and Amber Davies combine perfectly as the entertaining office trio. Meanwhile, the experienced Sean Needham pulls of the role of Franklin Hart with relative ease and ensures the audience enter into his pantomime villain persona. 

Of course, the show would not be complete without reference to Dolly Parton (co-star of the 1980 movie and writer of all the songs in the show). Unfortunately, she doesn’t appear in person, but her pre-recorded image pops up to introduce the show – much to the delight of the audience. As expected, Parton’s song ‘9 to 5’ is played several times but never failed to prompt a unanimous toe-tap and head-nod from the whole Palace Theatre.

Despite its 1980s setting, the show’s unashamedly feminist plot will certainly still resonate with many of the modern-day viewers. As thought-provoking as it is entertaining – 9 to 5 the Musical will undeniably deliver a great night out. 

Book your tickets for 9 to 5 The Musical HERE.