“9 to 5,” a musical comedy featuring original songs by Dolly Parton, will take the stage April 10-13 at the West Virginia University Canady Creative Arts Center.
Set in the late 1970s, the musical is a hilarious story of friendship and revenge. In the Rolodex era, Violet, Judy and Doralee concoct a plan to get even with their sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical and bigoted boss.
“There is something for everyone,” said Robyne Parrish, a guest director for this WVU School of Theatre and Dance production. “It is fun, touching and feels like home. Plus, woman power! There are some pretty likable guys as well. Our audiences will laugh a lot and cry a little.”
Parrish returns to Morgantown after directing West Virginia Public Theatre’s 2024 production of “Clue.” She is an accomplished director, writer, producer and actor, with roles in “Law and Order” and “A Man Called Otto,” among many others. Previous directing credits include productions of “Steel Magnolias,” “Hamlet,” “The Sound of Music” and “The Carols.”
“The students here at WVU are top-notch,” Parrish said. “I also want to give a big shout-out to the design team. I can't wait to watch these students fly out in the world. They are so professional, creative and inspiring, and it is so much fun to work with both Acting and Musical Theatre students as well as non-majors. I am very proud of my ensemble.”
“9 to 5” is based on the 1980 movie of the same name, which starred Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin and Dolly Parton. The film inspired a television show which first aired in 1982 and was adapted for the stage in 2008 with a Broadway debut in 2009. A national tour of the stage production began in 2010.
The WVU production includes a cast and crew of students from the School of Theatre and Dance.
“They have so much going on and so much responsibility,” Parrish said. “This conservatory-style training is important for the hustle they will need in the industry to pull together a life in the theatre.”
“9 to 5” premieres on April 10 at 7:30 p.m., with additional performances on April 11 and April 12 at 7:30 p.m., and April 13 at 2 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit go.wvu.edu/ccamtickets.