An energetic production full of heart.
Edinburgh University Footlights’ recent production of 9 to 5 The Musical at the Pleasance Theatre brought the beloved story of women empowering themselves in the workplace to life with an engaging and spirited performance. The musical, based on the classic 1980s film, continues to resonate with audiences across generations, and the enthusiastic turnout at the performance was a clear reflection of its enduring appeal.
The production’s greatest strengths lay in its dynamic choreography, skillfully executed comedic moments, and a talented live band that provided a lively, well-balanced accompaniment to Dolly Parton’s iconic score. The ensemble brought vibrant energy to the stage, but it was the trio of lead characters—Violet, Judy, and Doralee—who truly captured the essence of the musical’s heart. Their chemistry was palpable, as they seamlessly embodied the camaraderie that lies at the core of the story. These performances were marked by warmth and humor, leading to several standout moments that showcased the power of collaboration.
The true stars of the evening were Hannah Whelan and Orly Benn. Whelan’s portrayal of Roz, the overly involved and infatuated office worker, was nothing short of West End-worthy, delivering a performance that was both hilarious and endearing. Benn’s commanding performance as Violet, the empowered and authoritative office manager, demonstrated depth and charisma, making her a compelling presence on stage. Both actors brought a level of energy and commitment that elevated the entire production.
While the cast shone brightly, technical issues detracted from the overall impact of the show. Sound quality was a consistent problem throughout, with microphones peaking at inopportune moments, often drowning out the performers’ vocals. Scene transitions also proved to be clumsy and disorganized, disrupting the flow of the production and hindering its momentum. In the second half, pacing faltered, with energy levels dipping at certain points, leaving the show feeling uneven. These hiccups could likely be attributed to the nerves of an opening night performance, as there were moments where timing and delivery felt tentative.
Despite these technical challenges, 9 to 5 remained an enjoyable and lighthearted evening of theatre, offering a delightful escape with its infectious sense of fun. The student-run production was brimming with enthusiasm, but it was clear that with a bit more polish, both technically and in performance confidence, this show could reach new heights throughout their run. It was evident that the cast and crew were exceptionally dedicated to their performances and having a great deal of fun. With continued refinement, Edinburgh University Footlights could easily take this show from enjoyable to exceptional in future performances.
Tickets for the remainder of the run can be purchased at https://fixr.co/en-US/event/9-to-5-the-musical-tickets-825761478.