By Andy Hillier
There’s always a bit of skepticism present when a classic film or TV show is adapted into a musical. However, any fears that may have existed before seeing the show were easily extinguished by the opening of the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre’s production of the musical “9 to 5”.
“9 to 5: The Musical” is a lively and entertaining adaptation of the beloved 1980 film. Bursting with energy, catchy tunes, and a strong message of empowerment, this musical is a delightful experience from start to finish.
The story is essentially the same as the movie: Tired of being pushed around by their chauvinist and pompous boss, Mr. Hart (played by David Gordon-Johnson), three hard-working secretaries, Violet, Doralee, and Judy (played respectively by Melissa Crabtree, Janelle Sanabria, and Savannah Sinclair), devise a plan to rid the office of Mr. Hart and make the lives of their colleagues better.
This is the message so firmly rooted in director Landree Fleming’s production – why give voice to the loudest and most unjust voice when we can work together to make all of our lives better? In her director’s note, Fleming writes, “I’m not interested in giving those men any more power with our attention. They’ve had plenty of it, and look what they’ve done with it.” Even in the microcosm of the office environment, the improvements the women make in the absence of Mr. Hart empower them, and the audience is invited to join them in their triumphs.
One of the standout features of the show is its fantastic score, composed by Dolly Parton herself. Parton is one of country music’s biggest stars of all time and she was also one of the stars of the original film on which the musical is based.
Each song is a toe-tapping delight, blending elements of country, pop, and musical theater seamlessly. From the iconic title track “9 to 5” to the poignant ballad “Get Out and Stay Out,” the music elevates the storytelling and keeps the audience engaged throughout.
While Violet, Judy, and Doralee hatch their plan to best Mr. Hart, the score requires strong vocal talents to match Ms. Parton’s melodies. The principals and the ensemble are up to the challenge. While each actress has their moment in the proverbial sun, of particular note is the trio between the three leads in “Change It,” a musical tour de force with complicated harmonies and elegant vocal lines.
The pacing of this production is fast, and Eleanor Kahn’s wonderful set design makes it easy to focus on the actors and the story. The colors and patterns are reminiscent of the period and the film with plenty of space for exciting song and dance numbers.
Accentuating the world of the play, lighting designer Madeleine Reid makes clever use of suspended “fluorescent” light to reinforce the modern office environment look, while also serving the practical purpose of highlighting especially emotional moments by changing the color of the fluorescents. Additionally, choreographer Jenna Schoppe makes great use of the open space to mesmerize the audience with fabulous dance sequences.
It would be easy to go overboard with the costuming, but the actors truly look like they stepped out of a department store ad from the 1970s with fun patterns, bright colors, and polyester prints. You would think clashing with each other and the set would be inevitable, but instead, Jasmin Aurora Medina worked hard to create a cohesive and lively palette that enhanced the characters’ actions on stage.
The cast brings the colorful characters to life with charisma and talent. The trio of leading ladies–Violet, Doralee, and Judy–are portrayed with depth and humor, allowing the audience to connect with their journey of friendship and empowerment. The bond between the three women is palpable, making the audience immediately relate to their struggles and root for them as the story progresses.
Indeed, the three leading ladies truly embody the themes of the production, while doing so in a heartfelt, powerful, and humorous way. Melissa Crabtree’s Violet is strong and ambitious. Despite the struggles Violet faces throughout the production, Crabtree shows us a resourceful, no-nonsense woman who is able to remain compassionate and caring, mirrored in her strong, yet compelling delivery of the vocal lines written for the character.
Judy, though meek and shy, possesses hidden strength and resilience adapting to her new environment as a recent divorcée. Savannah Sinclair portrays a wonderful arc for her character–we see Judy blossom into a confident woman, ready to assert herself and embrace her new-found independence. In the musically challenging number “Get Out and Stay Out,” we really feel the complete transformation of the character. It wouldn’t be as effective a moment without the lyricism of Sinclair’s voice behind the belt.
Doralee, as played by Janelle Sanabria, is sassy and vivacious. The audience was able to thoroughly enjoy Sanabria’s performance, someone who clearly understands Doralee and keeps her unapologetically herself. Doralee is witty, kind, and has her tongue firmly planted in cheek. Throughout the show, Sanabria challenges stereotypes about women, proving that she is more than a pretty face. As is the case with Melissa Crabtree and Savannah Sinclair, Sanabria is a strong vocalist who can maneuver multiple vocal styles with ease.
A particular shout-out has to be given to the wonderful supporting cast, who bring energy and comedic timing to every scene. Dani Goldberg is absolutely delightful as Roz, the jealous secretary with a special penchant for Mr. Hart. Goldberg takes what could be a rather one-dimensional character and gives her life and daring physicality. In “Heart to Hart,” Roz takes center stage in an elaborate song and dance number that is a true showstopper.
In addition to the strong female characters, one would be remiss not to mention the male actors, who gamely support the women providing the heart of the production. Leading the pack is David Gordon-Johnson, who provokes laughs with Mr. Hart’s absurd chauvinism. August Forman is a sweet Joe–gently coaxing Violet out of her shell and back into dating life after years of widowhood. Finally, Simeon Taylor shines as a security guard, whose brief, but hilarious scene is a highlight of physical comedy.
But perhaps the most compelling aspect of “9 to 5: The Musical” is its message of female empowerment and solidarity in the workplace. Through humor and heart, the show addresses issues of gender inequality and workplace harassment, ultimately championing the strength and resilience of women. It’s a timely and important message delivered with wit and charm.
Most importantly, “9 to 5: The Musical” is a feel-good extravaganza that entertains and inspires in equal measure. With its catchy music, stellar performances, and empowering message, it’s a must-see for fans of the original film and musical theater enthusiasts alike. Certainly, the charm of the musical relies on strong and committed performances and the cast of Metropolis’s “9 to 5”
“9 to 5: The Musical” is running from May 2nd to May 26th at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre with performances on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 pm. There are also matinees on Saturday afternoons at 3:00 pm.
The Metropolis is located at 111 W. Campbell St. in Arlington Heights. Free parking is available on the street and in the parking garage behind the theater. While you’re in the area, visiting Arlington Alfresco is a great option to enjoy the best of downtown Arlington Heights’s restaurants and eateries before the show.
For tickets, visit www.MetropolisArts.com or call (847) 577-2121.
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Andy Hillier is a French and Theatre teacher at McHenry Community High School. He recently received his MA in Theatre Directing from Roosevelt University.
