Dallas Review: “9 to 5 the Musical” by North Texas Performing Arts
Shawn Stalter, Chief Dallas/Ft. Worth Critic
North Texas Performing Arts (NTPA) gives DFW audiences a well-deserved break from the stresses of the 40-hour workweek with a fun and dynamic production of “9 to 5 the Musical.”
Based on the 1980 hit movie “9 to 5” starring Dolly Parton, this story follows a trio of strong women fighting back against the misogynistic “boy’s club” workplace atmosphere prevalent in the late 1970’s. Together, “Violet,” “Judy” and “Doralee,” pushed to the edge their sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot boss, “Franklin Hart, Jr.,” devise a plan to get even. With music and lyrics from Dolly Parton, “9 to 5 the Musical” is a cathartic story of revenge sure to quicken the pulse of anyone who’s endured the anguish of a toxic-male-fueled work environment.
NTPA’s insightful interpretation, under the direction of Rebecca Lowrey, crafted an entertaining, high-energy performance. Backed by robust choreography, courtesy of Jessica Humphrey, the show presents an engaging, immersive and thoroughly enjoyable experience.
The three leading ladies in this laugh out loud production not only bring their A-game to the stage with sublime vocals, but they also work in harmony to quickly build a convincing, budding friendship. Once this tight-knit trio forms and comes to the forefront of the action, the show takes flight and rises to the occasion.
In her role as the hard-working single mom and widow, “Violet Newstead,” Sky Williams conveys a powerful on-stage presence backed by deep emotional range. Her partner in crime, “Judy Bernly,” beautifully portrayed by Rachel Poole, expertly transitions from the meek office newcomer to a force of nature. With a lovely vocal range and a commanding persona, her performance is a true highlight of the show. Rounding out the deep talent in this dynamic triad is Mary Margaret Gates in the role of southern belle, “Doralee Rhodes.” Her uncanny vocal resemblance to Dolly Parton itself is worth the price of admission alone, but she also showcases some impressive acting skills. Her character’s THC-fueled song and dance number, “Cowgirl’s Revenge” was absolutely hilarious.
As their larger-than-life symbol of toxic masculinity, “Mr. Franklin Hart, Jr.,” Jared Culpepper expertly embodied all of the worst qualities of 70’s-era chauvinism and played a perfect villain. The oversexed, boy’s club work environment he builds on stage is as tragically accurate as it is lamentable. As his lackey, the submissive office manager, “Roz Keith,” billiantly performed by Brittany Brown helped fuel the workplace fire. She furnished an uproariously funny and heart-felt presentation in her role’s signature number “Heart to Heart.”
Although some scene transitions and sound design could use a bit of polishing, this production flies high in showcasing the three supremely skilled leading ladies. Overall, NTPA’s fun-filled, empowering production of “9 to 5 the Musical” is chock full of hearty laughs and lively action.
“9 TO 5 THE MUSICAL”
“9 to 5 the Musical,” directed by Rebecca Lowry, is suitable for audiences 13 and up. The show runs through March 1st, 2020. Cast members include Sky Williams as “Violet Newstead,” Rachel Poole as “Judy Bernly,” Mary Margaret Gates as “Doralee Rhodes,” Jared Culpepper as “Franklin Hart, Jr.,” Brittany Brown as “Roz Keith,” Aaron Braverman as “Joe/Ensemble,” Kally Duncan as “Kathy/Ensemble,” Braiden Fisher as “Dwayne Rhodes/Ensemble,” Jack Carolan as “Tinsworthy/Ensemble,” Bonnie Grugle as “Margaret/Ensemble,” Isabelle Culpepper as “Missy Hart,” Finn Hardge as “Josh Newstead,” Michael Cristian as “Dick Bernly/Ensemble,” Thomas Moquete as “Bob Enright/Ensemble,” Ursula Villarreal as “Maria/Ensemble,” Leah Flores as “New Girl/Ensemble,” and Caleb Ross and Duncan Michael as “Ensemble.”
Reserve your seat for an upcoming performance by visiting NTPARep.org.
Photo credit: Jason Anderson, Pendleton Photography