By TERRI ELANDER
As we turn the clocks ahead to 2014, the Missoula Community Theatre turns them back to the Rolodex era, with the January production of 9 to 5 the Musical, based on the 1980 hit movie by 20th Century Fox. The film starred the eclectic and talented trio of Dolly Parton as “Doralee”, Lily Tomlin as “Violet” and Jane Fonda as “Judy,” the female co-workers pushed to the boiling point by their sexist, egotistical, lying and hypocritical boss, “Franklin Hart, Jr.” played by Dabney Coleman. Patricia Resnick wrote the book, and the music score was crafted by Dolly Parton.
9 to 5 the Musical is hilarious, yet thought-provoking and a little romantic as it takes a look at the days of manual typewriters and steno pads, when women were entering the workforce in record numbers. Outside of the office, these capable women ran household budgets, raised children, cooked, cleaned and did the laundry. But from 9 to 5, they were still “the girls.” Parton’s score is a delightful mix of country, pop, ballads and blues. It received a nomination for Best Original Score (Tony Award), Best Musical Show Album (Grammy), and won the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical Score, to name just a few.
To direct the show, MCT called upon Teresa Waldorf, who directed Once Upon a Mattress for the Missoula Community Theatre in January 2012. Waldorf also thrilled audiences onstage as “Ouiser” in last season’s Steel Magnolias. Waldorf, herself a professional woman, identified with the story’s theme. “I will never forget seeing 9 to 5 in the theatre for the first time. It was, at the time, inspiring to a young girl just entering the work force. When I heard MCT was doing the musical, I knew I wanted to ‘guest direct’ again for them, if they would have me. It will be a joy to share this gift of a show with Missoula audiences.” Although women may identify closely with the characters and their journey to gain respect in the workplace, there is plenty of entertainment value and laughs for the men in the audience. The show contains scenes with adult situations and language—parental discretion is advised.
Tickets are available beginning Monday, January 6th! 9 to 5 the Musical plays January 17-19 and 22-16, 2014 at the MCT Center for the Performing Arts. Wednesday-Saturday night performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday matinees begin at 2:00 p.m. and Sunday evenings at 6:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $15.00-$21.00 and can be purchased at the MCT box office (200 North Adams), online, or by calling (406) 728-7529. All seats are reserved.
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