Rugby's Summer Youth Project smashes it again!
- ann-evans
- Aug 2
- 3 min read
9 to 5 The Musical, presented by Rugby Theatre's Summer Youth Project. Music & lyrics by Dolly Parton, book by Patricia Resnick, directed by Janet Devenish. Running at Rugby Theatre from 30 July to 3 August 2025.
Review by Ann Evans
Tumble outa bed and get yourself down to the Rugby Theatre and see if there’s any tickets left for the final two performances of 9 to 5 the Musical. This is Rugby Theatre’s 26th Summer Youth Project and once again these young performers sing, dance and act their hearts out, creating a brilliant evening’s entertainment that would not have looked out of place on the West End stage.
More than 100 young people aged between 10 and 21 take part in the show, with the principle roles shared by two people – so a staggering amount of organisation and rehearsing, especially when you realise this is all done in just 10 days!
This must be teamwork to the highest degree with everyone playing their part, from the parents and chaperones to the production team, director, stage manager, techies, set builders, costume, hair and make-up people, choreographers, musicians – the list goes on, and of course the talented young stars of the show.
The theme of the story, 9 to 5 is as relevant now as it was in the 1980s. looking at unfairness in the workplace between the sexes along with bullying, control, and chauvinistic attitudes. All of these unpleasant traits are rolled up into one character – the boss of the company, Franklin Hart, played brilliantly by Daniel Faulkner (and William Jones on alternative nights). A great voice and some fabulous choreography moves, not least when he gets tied up – then strung up on a wire by the women as they eventually meter out justice for his awful behaviour.
The three principle female characters are absolutely superb. 160 young people turned up for auditions earlier this year, and casting for these roles was perfect. On the night this reviewer was there, Doralee was played by Amelia Liddle (Martha May-Brown on alternative nights), mastering the Texan accent, looking and acting in her own sassy and confident way, she did an excellent job in portraying Dolly Parton from the 9 to 5 movie, with a delightful singing voice too.
The office supervisor is Violet, played by Grace Mold (Megan Gyles at other performances). Violet is constantly overlooked when it comes to promotion, with Mr Hart giving the better jobs to the men in the office regardless of whether they are better qualified. Violet is pushed too far and plans are put in motion for things to change in the company. Excellent acting by Grace who really knows how to bring humour into her movements – and an absolutely outstanding singer.
Our third main female character is Judy whose husband has recently left her for another woman, and she’s having to work for the first time. She’s out of her depth in an office environment to begin with, but with help from Violet, she finds her confidence – and becomes strong enough to tell her ex to get out of her life. ‘Get Out and Stay Out’ sung by her, is incredible. What a voice! Judy is played by Connie Graham (Leah Hobson on other nights).
Perhaps the most surprising character is dowdy, timid Roz played by Freya Lee (Ruth Odell on other nights) – who is obsessed with her boss Franklin Hart, but who allows her true passionate self to shine through as she sings ‘Heart to Heart’. What an incredible singing voice she has that really raises the roof!
As a musical throughout, the singing, whether solos or the entire cast blasting out great harmonies is just wonderful – all with the musical accompaniment of a fabulous 9-piece live band under the musical direction of Jonathan Rees.
This is a really funny play, lots of humour throughout, and great choreography – especially from the cast of young men whose timing and dance routines were faultless.
There’s not a single dull moment, with the aisles of the auditorium used a lot for the coming and going of the ensemble, heading on and off the stage, every one of them singing their hearts out and obviously enjoying every moment – just as the audience were.
Well done all the cast, all the musicians, all the production and back- stage crew. Another brilliant success under your belts!
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