Reviewed by: Sharron Swain
Tumble out of bed and stumble to the theatre to see Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 musical—Jan. 20-Feb. 6
Reading time: 5 minutes
Sponsored
Start off your year with a hilarious theatre experience full of romance, revenge and Dolly Parton’s classic hits as The Virginia Samford Theatre presents Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 from January 20 to February 6. Get your tickets now!
A little about the show
Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 is a comedic story of unbreakable friendship, revenge and even a little romance. It’s based on the 1980 hit movie of the same name starring Dolly Parton herself.
Set in the late 1970s, the story follows three female co-workers—Violet, Judy and Doralee—as they plot to get even with their sexist, narcissistic boss. With a fantasy plan that comes to life, you’re in for an exciting ride as the three-some takes their boss hostage in an effort to change their company for the better.
Wondering what happens next? You’ll have to see the show to find out.
Details to know
- Show Dates: Jan. 20-Feb. 6
- Times: Thursdays-Saturdays 7:30PM I Sundays 2:30PM
- Ticket Prices: Reserved Seating Tickets-$43 I Student Tickets-$23
- Theatre Location: 1116 26th St S, Birmingham, AL 35205
Reserved Seating Tickets can be purchased online while Student Tickets are only available at the box office, located at the Virginia Samford Theatre front entrance.
Meet some of the cast
We went behind the scenes to get you the inside scoop on what makes this show so good from the actors and director themselves.
Savannah Hudson plays Doralee Rhodes, a happily married country girl with blonde hair and a bubbly personality who is secretary to the head boss. This was the character originally portrayed by Dolly Parton in the film.
“The thing I love most about [Doralee] is that she’s a character who has decided not to accept less than exactly what she wants.”
Savannah Hudson, Actress, Doralee Rhodes in Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5
Chelsea Reynolds plays Violet Newstead, the ultimate driven woman who is held back in her career due to sexism, misogyny and most importantly, her boss.
“Balancing being a single mom and wanting to climb the ladder, she keeps being pushed down, Violet isn’t content to let ‘the boys’ bypass her, and I admire her tenacity to make things happen.”
Chelsea Reynolds, Actress, Violet Newstead in Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5
Carl Dean is the incredible director behind this show and many others performed at the Virginia Samford Theatre. He promises a fun show full of toe-tapping dancing, top-notch vocals and a wonderful story.
Why you need to see it
Let’s dive into why this is a show you won’t want to miss. If you love comedy, dance, or catchy country music, Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 is the musical for you.
If you appreciate a country twang and a happy ending, you should come see this show. It’s easy on the heart, and SPOILER ALERT…the good guys win!
Savannah Hudson, Actress, Doralee Rhodes in Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5
The best part about theatre is its ability to transport us into a different reality, and in this show, singing and dancing are a way of life. Bonus: A great ending is guaranteed.
“I could go on and on about how funny the show is or how relatable the characters are, but I love the SANGIN’ the most. This show isn’t pretentious or aloof. What you see is what you get and it doesn’t leave you wanting more (in a good way).”
Savannah Hudson, Actress, Doralee Rhodes in Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5
No matter if you’re a country music fan or not, you’re sure to recognize some of these classic songs like 9 to 5 or Backwoods Barbie. You’ll be singing along with the cast in no time.
Breaking the glass ceiling
This show might, at first glance, appear to be a simple comedy, but the story tackles some serious topics including sexism, breaking stereotypes and misogyny in the workplace. The three main characters represent three classic female stereotypes in the working world. Doralee is the sexy “bimbo”, Judy is the timid pushover and Violet is the fiery career woman.
Each character makes their own incorrect assumptions about each other before banding together to attack the real enemy, their boss—the embodiment of the inequality issues facing women in the workplace.
“This show is about women and written by women. It’s not often you get to embody or watch a story that centers around the strength found in women coming together without a romance at the center of it.”
Chelsea Reynolds, Actress, Violet Newstead in Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5
Are you as excited as we are to see this show? Make sure to grab your tickets before they sell out!
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