EDINBURGH 2016 - Review: 9 to 5, Assembly, 13 August

9 to 5 opens with a video from Dolly Parton herself, setting the scene for us. It's 1979 and Judy Burnlee has to get a job after her husband left her for his secretary. With no skills to speak of, she starts working for Consolidated Companies, under the rule of chauvinist boss Mr Hart.

The character Doralee, who was played by Parton in the 1980 film version of 9 to 5, has a bit of a reputation around the office. Mr Hart has started a rumour that she is sleeping with him and nobody has any time for her. As the workers get to know each other a little better, they unite in their disdain for Mr Hart. The three women end up kidnapping their boss and while he is tied up in their house, they set about making the workplace a happier environment and give better rights and conditions to their staff.

This is a fabulous production - the quality is outstanding. The three leading ladies are exceptional: Jamie Shriner as Judy, Genevieve Clark as Violet and my personal favourite, Isabella Ward as Doralee. Her solo song "Backwoods Barbie" is a definite highlight of the show. A guaranteed feel-good musical; all of the songs featured are fantastic.

While this is technically a student production, you wouldn't know it. The talent of the cast would rival anything you see in the West End. I dare anyone to leave 9 to 5 without a smile on their face.

9 to 5 runs at Assembly until 28 August.

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