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9 To 5

Venue: Empire Theatre
Town: Sunderland
Date: 2nd November

Despite mixed reviews, my parents and I were very much looking forward to seeing 9 to 5 when it graced the stage at The Empire Theatre, Sunderland.

I will admit, however, to being just a little sceptical as to how it would translate onto the stage.

For the uninitiated, 9 to 5 was the 1980 film starring Dolly Parton as Doralee, who along with two of her colleagues, takes revenge upon their unreasonable boss. Yes, the story is far fetched. Yes, it was entertaining and yes it absolutely worked on stage.

Featuring twelve new songs penned by Dolly Parton especially for the stage, and of course that iconic title song, the musical performances, dancing and acting were al flawless. Amy Lennox played a thoroughly believable Doralee; no small shoes to live up to since that was the role played by Parton herself. So convincing was Lennox' portrayal, I believe she could speak in a Southern bar and be believed to be native! Her vocals were stunning; if she tires of acting, a career in country music could beckon.

Her counterparts, Jackie Clune, who has appeared in Eastenders and Natalie Cassidy from Hollyoaks, excelled as Violet and Judy, both in their character portrayals and vocal performances. Together the three were a veritable force to be reckoned with as they wreaked revenge upon Franklin, played brilliantly by Ben Richards from Footballer's Wives.

Another exceptional performance came from Bonnie Langford, in the role of the 'office snitch,' secretly in love with the boss. She played sexy and comedy to a tee and performed a fabulous dance number; her vocals and sheer energy were second to none. You could be forgiven for believeing her to be twenty years younger than she is!

The surprise element came in the form of an intermittent narration from Dolly Parton herself, via a drop down clock face. It really felt like she had been a part of the show. At the end, she touchingly said 'Thankyou Sunderland,' which I felt was a lovely personal touch for each location. Then as the piece de resistance, she launched into song, so that she, we and the cast all got to sing 9 to 5 together. Sheer magic. The perfect end to a perfect show.

I for one will be back to see it on its return, even if I have to work 9 to 5 until then!

Helen Mitchell