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 reach any 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 in the footsteps of the #MeToo movement and the gender pay gap still existing, it seems like the show is still more relevant than ever. 

The mighty BBLOC are back with their latest show. With female leads at the forefront, it's time to celebrate some talented local cast in the Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre. 

Following the lives of Violet (Sally Wheeler), Doralee (Amy Cave) and Judy (Michelle Wright), 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 stole the show and each of them brought emotion, humour and humanity to their characters. Sally Wheeler embodied the strong Violet perfectly, the aspiring CEO who just wanted to get the promotion she fairly deserved. Whilst Michelle Wright left me gobsmacked by her vocal talents as Judy, who's husband adultery lands her in a new job. Joining the trio was Amy Cave who blew me away as Doralee, an obviously brilliant tribute to Dolly herself, as a young woman who just wants to become a country and western singer and be taken seriously.  

The rest of the cast perfectly complimented the three leading ladies. With Rob Pike stepping into the role as Franklin Hart Jr, the boss who embodies misogyny and seediness. His moments on stage were truly villianous and it took everything in the audience not to boo him whilst on stage. Matthew Traher played the lovable Joe, who just wants to fall in love and find happiness amongst the no fraternising signs. Kamya Brake was perfectly cast in the role of Roz, the office busybody who not only sucked the fun out of the office, but also had a secret infatuation for the boss. Her rendition of "Heart to Hart" was performed to comedic precision and truly left the audience in stitches. 

With songs by the late, great, formidable Dolly Parton, who even managed to star in the show herself via the magic of video, you could be pushed to think that this is another jukebox musical with a flimsy storyline. But you will find yourself completely wrong. Whilst Dolly penned all the songs herself, it's hard not to tap your toes and dance in your seat to the music whilst following the story about women empowerment and taking back control of your own destiny. With a quintessential country twang in such songs as "Backwoods Barbie" alongside the power ballad of "Get Out and Stay Out" there is something to appeal to every audience member including the title track. 

BBLOC are one of those theatre groups that seem to produce endless talent and brilliant shows. Each show they put on would rival that of a West End show with the talent, set design, choreography, and direction and they just keep getting better year on year. Whether you're a local to Bournemouth or want to experience something new, this show is for you. It's an inspiring show full of big songs and female independence with a cast that just seem to be loving it from the opening bars to the final bows. Bravo BBLOC, you've done it again!