When I was asked to review 9 to 5, I was literally chomping at the bit; mine and my grandma’s favourite film when I was growing up. We watched it at least three times a week!
And boy did BBLOC not disappoint me in this joyous adaptation of the hit 1980 movie starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin and Dolly Parton; and latterly a successful stage musical about three put-upon secretaries who have had just about enough of their ‘sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot‘ of a boss – and decide to teach him the lesson of his life.
BBLOC’s interpretation includes introduction and epilogue video messages from Dolly Parton herself, made all the more poignant now since her recent passing.
Brim full of pitch perfect songs, this lively, colourful caper also features all the original and beloved one liners, fabulously delivered from this top-notch cast. Amy Cave’s interpretation of Doralee’s inimitable line, “If you ever say another word about me or make another indecent proposal, I’m gonna get that gun of mine … and I’m gonna change you from a rooster to a hen with one shot!”, is full of Dolly-esque Southern sass that will amuse and satisfy any gal who has ever been leered at or grabbed by a ‘handsy’ inappropriate boss!
Similarly, the scene where the ladies spend an evening smoking marijuana and plotting revenge is hilariously and creatively re-imagined as they each share how they would like to see Franklyn Hart get his comeuppance.
There are great performances throughout from this talented ensemble cast, but standouts for me have to be the three leading ladies, Sally Wheeler, Amy Cave and Michelle Wright who portray the infuriated secretaries with great aplomb, as well as Kamya Brake who gives a riotous performance as the hapless Rozz Keith, Franklyn Hart’s lovelorn office spy who is prepared to do anything for just a morsel of his attention.
This is an exuberant and colourful experience from start to finish, with tightly choreographed, foot tapping musical numbers that brings the audience off their feet in an energetic finale.
BBLOC has done Dolly proud with this slick, West End worthy production.
9 to 5 is showing until Saturday 17th October at the Pavillion Bournemouth – book now for a magnificent evening of pure joy, what are you waiting for!
Andrea Michelle 
"A memorable show with a talented cast"
This high energy, feelgood musical is based on the 1980 hit film, telling the story of three women who decide to take control of their working lives and get rid of their chauvinistic boss.
As with their previous productions, BBLOC delivers a memorable show with a talented cast, filling the stage with colour, humour and a story of resilience which is still relevant today.
Directed by Helen Barrington this is a fast paced uplifting show, with a hard working cast both in the lead roles and ensemble, supported by an excellent orchestra under the baton of M.D. Ian Peters.
The first scene featuring the iconic 9 to 5 song is introduced by Dolly Parton herself on a video projection, a bright vibrant number featuring the entire cast, with slick choreography.
Stepping into Dolly's shoes is no easy task, but Amy Cave as Doralee has all the necessary "attributes" as well as nailing the Southern/Texas twang, and the voice and body language.
Sally Wheeler is well cast as smart, capable Violet, with a softer side in her scenes with Joe her admirer (Matthew Traher).
Michelle Wright is a warm hearted and suitably vulnerable and nervous Judy, the new girl in the office.
All three are superb singers with powerful voices, and work well as a tight knit team in their plotting to dispose of their manipulative boss, providing infectious humour and strong acting.
Rob Pike as Franklin Hart Jr is very convincing as the smug, sexist office boss, showing his ability as a strong character actor. Kamya Brake is hilarious as the sycophantic Roz, devoted to the unpleasant Franklin.
The choreography (Heather Davis) and dancing by the company is joyful and entertaining and the group singing is exceptional. "Backwood Barbie" was a particular favourite performed with such energy and fun.
A show is a group collaboration with many unseen hard working contributors, and production manager Duncan Hook, costumes/ wardrobe by Janine Long and team, props, crew, all ensured the high standard of the staging and production.
The finale is particularly poignant as the cast turn to face the screen to watch the closing words from the wonderful, unforgettable Dolly Parton.
A first night standing ovation was well deserved. At Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre until 17th October. Don't miss it!
𝟗 𝐓𝐎 𝟓 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐔𝐒𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐋 — 𝐀 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐎𝐕𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐀 𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐎𝐔𝐒 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐒𝐇𝐎𝐖 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐘𝐄𝐀𝐑!
Love a great show? Then get ready to laugh, sing and be thoroughly entertained.
🎭 9 to 5 The Musical at Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre is an absolute smash hit.
Running until Saturday 17th October, there’s still time to grab your tickets and experience this fabulous, feel-good musical comedy, brought spectacularly to life by the incredibly talented Bournemouth & Boscombe Light Opera Company (BBLOC).
Packed with infectious energy, laugh-out-loud moments, dazzling dance routines and wow-factor vocals, this is feel-good theatre at its very best. From the moment the curtain rises, the cast deliver a powerhouse performance bursting with talent, charisma and professionalism.
The performances are simply sensational.
Sally Wheeler shines as Violet, Amy Cave lights up the stage as Doralee, and Michelle Wright is superb as Judy. And a special mention for the unforgettable Rob Pike as Franklin Hart Jr, who delivers a brilliant performance that keeps the audience hooked!
The supporting cast are equally impressive, with Kamya Brake as Roz, Mathew Traher as Joe, and a whole host of talented performers helping make this production such a joy to watch.
Huge congratulations to Director Helen Barrington, Musical Director Ian Peters and Choreographer Heather Davis for bringing this spectacular show to life. The slick staging, fabulous musical numbers and energetic choreography combine to create a truly memorable theatrical experience.
We were hooked from start to finish!
A fabulous celebration of the iconic Dolly Parton, with all the nostalgia, humour, heart and attitude you could wish for, 9 to 5 The Musical is an absolute treat and a show guaranteed to leave you smiling long after the final curtain.
This is more than a musical — it’s a feel-good, toe-tapping, roof-raising night of entertainment.
Another phenomenal triumph for BBLOC and a must-see show for anyone who loves live theatre.
Don’t miss your chance to see it — grab those tickets before the curtain comes down.
Five-star entertainment. Fabulous performances. One unforgettable show.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Suzy Wheeler
