Working 9-5, what a way to make a living. That is if you're not a woman who has to navigate the misogyny of the workplace whilst juggling childcare, home life and the barriers to job progression. 9 to 5 The Musical is a show that has been around in some form or other for 40 years, you could hope that there would be some real progression in that time. But with the rise of the #MeToo movement and the gender pay gap still existing, it seems like the show is more relevant than ever.
Opening the UK tour in Southampton at the Mayflower Theatre, Max and I were fortunate enough to tumble out of bed and stumble to the theatre for a rip roaring show that had the audience on their feet clapping and cheering.
Following the lives of Violet (Louise Redknapp), Doralee (Stephanie Chandos) and Judy (Vivian Panka), you are thrown into a story of women who dare to be different, want to stand up for themselves and others, and aren't willing to take no for an answer. The three leading ladies honestly stole the show and each of them brought emotion, humour and humanity to their characters. Both myself and Max were whooping and cheering with each success they had. Louise Redknapp embodied Violet perfectly, the aspiring CEO who just wanted to get the promotion she fairly deserved, whilst Vivian Panka left me gobsmacked by her vocal talents as the young Judy, who's husband ran away with the assistant. Joining the trio was Stephanie Chandos who blew me away as Doralee, an obvious imitation of Dolly herself, who just wants to become a country and western singer and be taken seriously.
Whilst I wouldn't say that 9 to 5 is a completely family based show, I would say that it's great for those 10+ at the most. There is a touch of swearing, a fair amount of sexual references and some scenes that might leave little ones with more questions than answers! It's a great show to open up the conversation on how society still portrays women in the workplace, and has a belting soundtrack to help you learn all you need to know.
9 to 5 is one of those shows that is very much needed at this time. With theatre's reopening and people looking for some light relief in the theatre's you would be hard beat by heading to see this show. It ticks all the boxes of a good storyline, has great songs and brilliant acting. It's time to pour yourself a cup of ambition, tumble out of bed and head to the theatre as this show packs a punch and will bring a smile to your face.
Running at the Mayflower until 4th September, 9 to 5 the Musical is then heading on a UK tour and it's one not to miss.
*Note we were gifted tickets for the purpose of our review. All thoughts and opinions are our own.
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