9 To 5 The Musical

Marlowe Theatre

More than three decades after comedy 9 To 5, starring Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda as three office workers who turn the tables on their horrible boss proved a box office smash in 1980, a musical stage adaptation is touring the UK.

In addition to the well-known title song, written for the movie, it features all new music written by Dolly, and the country star actually narrates the show, appearing on the clock face above the stage, which turns into a screen for the pre-recorded footage.

It opened at Canterbury's Marlowe Theatre on Monday, and from the energetic performance of its first song - a full cast rendition of 9 To 5 - the pace never dropped.

The three leading ladies, Natalie Casey, Jackie Clune and Amy Lennox, all have impressive singing voices and are really strong performers, displaying expert comic timing in the show's many farcical situations.

Amy particularly shines with her feisty but vulnerable performance as blonde bombshell Doralee, Dolly's role in the movie, highlighted in her rendition of Backwoods Barbie.

Ben Richards also gives as good as he gets as the misogynist boss Franklyn J Hart, making highly suggestive innuendo seem cheeky rather than nasty, and displaying impressive vocal talents in his song Here For You.

Particular mention has to be given to Lori Haley Fox, hilarious in her over-the-top portrayal of office drunk Margaret, and Anita Louise Combe as Roz Keith, Franklyn's devoted secretary who strips off to suspenders and corset in a wild musical fantasy about enjoying an evening of passion with him.

It is definitely a great girls' night out, with a strong message of female empowerment, but men are sure to enjoy the witty script and great performances.

And it turned into a real party at the end, as after the curtain calls Dolly herself sang 9 To 5, getting everyone in the theatre on their feet clapping and dancing.

She even said 'Thank you Canterbury' at the end. It was a lovely touch, and typical of the thought which has gone into this classy production.

Everyone left the theatre smiling - it really was a feel-good evening of entertainment, not to be missed.

9 To 5 The Musical is at Canterbury’s Marlowe Theatre until Saturday, July 13. Tickets from £18. Call 01227 787787.