Dolly Parton's West End smash 9 to 5 The Musical is at Milton Keynes Theatre this week, and it's brimming with singing, dancing and empowerment!
It's easy to see why this has been a hit - there's plenty of laughs and a trio of strong characters leading the story, writes Chris Gregg.
Although it is based on a movie from 1978, the struggle for sexual equality in the workplace is a theme which is every bit as relevant today in the post #metoo era but using it as a theme for a comedy could have backfired.
Luckily, the strong female cast and genuinely funny script carry it off and this is a great feelgood 'girl power' musical about teaming up, standing up and taking care of business.
Expect plenty of dancing round office desks, passing sheets of paper around and pinstripe suits.
There's also regular appearances from Dolly Parton who pops up on a round screen inside a clock to narrate the story and do a bit of singing. She's been heavily involved with the production, having written the original Oscar, Grammy and Tony award-nominated score and even appeared on stage for the encore on opening night in London.
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The scene changes are slick and fluid with the back wall of the stage filled with a giant screen which animates the whole set and creates some stunning visual effects.
The show tells the story of Doralee Rhodes, Violet Newstead and Judy Bernly. It's Judy's first day in her first job as she tries to kickstart her life after her husband Dick cheated on her.
Violet has worked at Consolidated Industries for many years but has always been passed over for promotion. Meanwhile, Doralee is lusted after by their sexist an egotistical boss Franklin Hart, Jr. and discovers he has been spreading rumours about a non-existent affair. Pushed to boiling point, the trio decide to turn the tables on their boss and take control of the workplace but how far will they go?
Pop star turned actress Louise Redknapp will be playing Violet Newstead in Milton Keynes, although on press night she was replaced by her understudy Laura Tyrer who gave a strong and confident performance.
Brian Conley stole the show as chauvinistic boss Franklin Hart Jr, bringing a great performance and perfect comic timing to the role without diluting the repulsiveness of his character. Love Island 2017 winner Amber Davies reprises her West End role as naive Judy Bernly with strong acting and powerful vocals, while Georgina Castle is perfect as the Parton-esque Doralee.
This is a well crafted, slick show with some great performances and although you might only recognise the title song, there's plenty here to keep you entertained.
It's a great show to go and see with a group of friends or colleagues but it's concerning that 40 years on, there is still so much in this story which is relatable and still unresolved...
9 to 5 The Musical continues at Milton Keynea Theatre until Saturday. Book here
