9 to 5 The Musical
at West Boca High

Reviewed on March 15, 2013

Kelsey Powers
Boca Raton Community High School
Submitted for publication to

From the first cup of morning coffee until the elevator ride down to the parking lot at the end of the day, dreary office jobs can be incredibly predictable. But in West Boca High School's production of "9 to 5", the traditional office job gets a makeover and nothing happens according to plan.

"9 to 5", adapted from the movie of the same name, was written by Patricia Resnick with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton. It ran for five months on Broadway and was nominated for four 2009 Tony awards. The plot centers around three women working in the same office as they deal with gossip, pesky supervisors, and their sexist boss, eventually holding him hostage in order to implement some changes of their own into their workplace.

West Boca's production of "9 to 5" was defined by the energy and commitment of its entire cast, and the overall smooth technical aspects, such as seamless scene changes and an impressive student orchestra, that kept the audience immersed in the story throughout the performance.

The trio of Judy (Jade Zaroff), Doralee (Danielle Gavish), and Violet (Erin Locey), along with their boss Mr. Hart (Sean Javaherian) provided a solid backbone for the production, engrossing the audience in their dreams and fantasies. Each of the leads created a distinct and consistent character that remained intriguing to watch from their first lines until their final bows.

The rest of the cast, making up for the fact that one of the leads was ill at the time of the performance, delivered admirable performances as well. Most notably among them were Melissa Bradley as Roz, showcasing her vocal and dancing abilities in "Heart to Hart" and "One of the Boys", and Eddie Datz as Joe, adding even more depth to Judy's character in "Let Love Grow".

Technically, "9 to 5" was polished, with quick transitions owing to the skill of the fly operators and stage crew. Apart from occasional issues with mic levels, the sound was also impressive for a show using a live orchestra. LED lighting panels helped to create the mood for different scenes, but sometimes turned off or changed color for a seemingly unnecessary reason.

Witty, toe-tapping, and truly enjoyable, West Boca High School's production of "9 to 5" was a challenge well met by the cast and crew. No coffee was needed to perk the audience up after they left the theater, perhaps even looking forward to the work week.

Robyn Figueiredo
Flanagan High School
Submitted for publication to

Big voices, big hair, and big boobs converge on the stage of West Boca Raton Community High School's production of "9 TO 5". This musical explores a woman's perspective on the traditional workplace, and encounters three powerful ladies on a quest to rid themselves of this chauvinistic stigma.

With music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, and a book by Patricia Resnick, this classic movie became a musical for the stage in 2008. When on Broadway it received many mixed reviews, and eventually closed in 2009.

West Boca's production was anchored by an extremely diverse ensemble, aesthetically pleasing technical elements, and dynamic leads. Every member of the cast was engaged, and incredible versatile. Every person on stage interacted naturally, and contributed significantly to the overall energy.

Jade Zaroff (Judy Bernly), was captivating throughout the entire production. She sang beautifully, and had near perfect comedic timing. Sean Jahaverian (Frank Hart), was convincing as the misogynistic center of this musical. His characterization was consistent, and he created a recognizable character.

Eddie Datz (joe), was an outstanding vocalist in this production. Through his thorough characterization, and clean execution he provided an interesting take on the love interest of this musical. Melissa Bradely (Roz Keith) was hilarious and seemed to have come out of nowhere with an outstanding vocal and comedic performance in "Heart to Hart". The ensemble of the office workers was always fluid, and seemed genuine in their portrayal of these characters. This ensemble also provided many outstanding vocal performances.

The costumes designed by Rick Pena in this production were truly brilliant, because they told a story all on their own. The orchestra was amazing, their musicality and finesse when it came to things as simple as set change music, was truly wonderful. At times there seemed to be an unequal balance of microphone sound, that caused a bit of unnecessary noise onstage. Scene changes were extremely smooth, and the stage crew was always unseen by the audience.

West Boca Raton Community High School's production of "9 TO 5" the musical, was extremely well done and was incredibly energetic. This show proved to be fun for everyone, not just for a Backwoods Barbie.

Connor McVay
Deerfield Beach High School
Submitted for publication to

A backwoods Barbie, a lonely widow, and a new girl joined forces against their "sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical" boss in West Boca High School's production of "9 to 5 the Musical".

Based on the classic 1980 film, "9 to 5" was written by Patricia Resnick, with music by Dolly Parton. The musical was adapted to stage in 2007, and appeared on Broadway for a brief time in 2009. The story follows three working women as they each have a different back story but all share feelings of anger toward their boss. After accidentally slipping a little rat poison into his coffee, the girls are forced to kidnap their boss to keep him from alerting the police. While he's tied up at home, the girls turn the company around.

"9 to 5" was supported by an energetic ensemble that sang and danced with enthusiasm. While some of the actors lacked in clear enunciation, they made up for it in their excellent characterizations. The show also benefited from superb lighting.

Starring in the lead roles, Erin Locey, Danielle Gavish, and Jade Zaroff all conveyed their individual characters strongly while fitting together well as a trio. Jade Zaroff brought a euphonious singing voice to the role of Judy. As Violet, Erin Locey sang sweetly as well, despite having laryngitis. Acting as the vivacious Doralee, Danielle Gavish brought a firm commitment to her role; keeping her accent and characteristics consistent during both scene and song.

Playing the hated boss Frank Hart, Sean Javaherian gave a lively performance with risible acting, especially during the song "Here for You." Melissa Bradely dazzled as Roz; emerging unexpectedly as a wonderful singer during the jocular "Heart to Hart" number. Eddie Datz followed the trend of melodious voices with his own as Joe in the song "Let Love Grow."

The orchestra was magnificent. The music matched the scene in timing and mood, and was indistinguishable from the sound of a professional recording. Lighting was spot on, never distracting from the actors on stage. Sound was also consistent with very few issues which is admirable considering the level of difficulty of a musical.

With marvelous vocals and impeccable characterization, West Boca's Drama Department put on an exciting performance of "9 to 5 the Musical" that showcased the abilities of their talented students.

Lauren Nolan
Pope John Paul II High School
Submitted for publication to

Word around the cubicles is that backwoods Barbie Doralle Rhodes is the office trollop, widower Violet Newstead isn't getting that promotion, and that there's a seemingly innocent but clueless new girl named Judy Bernly. Sounds a lot like West Boca Raton High School's performance of "9 to 5 THE MUSICAL".

"9 to 5 THE MUSICAL'S" music and lyrics were written by Dolly Parton. Originally "9-5" was a movie(1980)that was then transformed into a musical featuring a book by Patricia Resnick. The musical premiered in Los Angeles in September of 2008, and later appeared on Broadway in April of 2009. It received over 19 Tony and Drama Desk awards. The Broadway run, however, ended early and closed in September of 2009. Later a national tour of the United States was launched in 2010.

A collection of many multi-talented students made this musical quite exceptional, and a sheer joy to watch. Moreover, leads Violet Newstead (Erin Locey), Doralee Rhodes (Danielle Gavish), and Judy Bernly (Jade Zaroff) worked together to form an unparalleled singing trio. Sean Javaherian's characterization of the sexist, egotistical,lying, hypocritical, bigot company boss Frank Heart was inerrant. His performance in the number "Here For You" was so uproarious it was impossible not to giggle.

Melissa Bradley's comedic performance as the cubicle rat Roz Keith was executed beautifully. Her song "Hart to Heart" left the audience in near tears from laughing. The smaller, but not to be forgotten role of Joe (Eddie Datz) added a darling, timid, quirky yet headstrong character to the show.

The ensemble in "9 to 5" came together nicely. It became apparent that each member had their purpose on stage. Although a bit too loud at times, the harmonies of the ensemble were clean and the sound of the orchestra crisp. Additionally, Rick Pena did a commendable job with costuming design.

All in all, West Boca Raton High School's Perfomance of "9 to 5 THE MUSICAL" was a delightful and blithe experience.

Eliana Meyerowitz
Boca Raton Community High School
Submitted for publication to

"Workin 9 to 5, what a way to make a livin. Barely gettin by, it's all takin and no givin," unless of course you kidnap your male chauvinist boss and secretly take over the office. The West Boca High Drama Department's recent production of "9 to 5" mastered this comedy-with-a-feminist-message.

Set in the late '70s, "9 to 5" revolves around Violet, a widowed mother who wants a promotion, Judy, who must support herself since her husband left her, and Doralee, Mr. Hart's misunderstood and over-sexualized secretary. All three women find common ground over their hate for their "sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot" boss, and they discover that they can make some changes if they work together. After Dolly Parton starred in the 1980s hit movie by Patricia Resnick and Colin Higgins, she helped turn "9 to 5" into a musical by writing the music and lyrics while Patricia Resnick adapted the book. The show received 15 Drama Desk Award nominations and 4 Tony Awards nominations.

The script entrusts the show's success to the strength of the lead actresses, and West Boca's three main women proved to be a dynamic trio who carried the show. All three had consistent and wholesome characterization individually, and they played off of each other well. Jade Zaroff as Judy Bernley mastered her moments of comedic, frazzled innocence but still portrayed Judy's transformation towards independence. Zaroff's solo "Get Out and Stay Out" showcased her rich range of emotion and captivating, masterful voice. Danielle Gavish as Doralee Rhodes had the audience roaring with laughter whether she was playing the kind country girl or the enraged cowgirl, and her belting would have Megan Hilty beaming with pride. As Violet Newstead, Erin Locey displayed skilled tap dancing and had an extra laudable performance since she was pushing through extreme laryngitis. It was clear she had a talented voice underneath since it shone through a couple times, and Gavish and Zaroff did a commendable job of balancing the performance to make up for their disadvantaged partner.

Many supporting and featured actors also deserve recognition. Frank Hart was played by Sean Javaherian who had great comedic timing, a smooth voice, and impressive physicality and who worked well with the leads. Melissa Bradely played Roz Keith and unexpectedly displayed booming, operatic vocals. Bradely's two solo songs were vocally and comically professional.

Although some actors had diction problems or lost steam towards the end, the show overall had high energy and a strong ensemble that was usually together in the dances and executed complex harmonies well.

Technically, this show was strong even in the few aspects that weren't professionally done. Though a few scene change mishaps stood out, most of the changes were smooth and impressive. The costumes, all done by students, showed character distinctions and were appropriate to the time period.

The cast and crew of "9 to 5" worked through challenges well and left the audience thinking, "Joy to the girls, we've all been delivered."

Lindsay Raham
JP Taravella HS
Submitted for publication to

Take some hard working women, a chauvinistic boss, and some crazy schemes, and you'll end up with West Boca High School's wild and quirky production of the musical "9 to 5."

This short lived Broadway production opened in April of 2009, and closed that same year just a few months later in September. The musical is based off of the movie "9 to 5" with music and lyrics written by Dolly Parton. The show centers around three diligent working women who are all down on their luck in different ways. They end up collaborating together to ultimately get their bigoted boss out of work. However, things don't always go as planned; and the three end up going through some hectic plans, and kidnap their boss. The audience is then put through a roller coaster of events and always left wondering what's coming next in this fast-paced musical.

The show was put on effortlessly by West Boca, and the large ensemble did nothing but aid the flow of the show. Although some minor parts of the show lacked a little energy, the cast was able to make up for it with superb dancing that was always in sync, and great vocals that shook the entire theater.

At the core of the show is the prejudiced boss, Frank Hart, portrayed by Sean Javaherian. Javaherian took the reins of his role and led himself all the way to perfection. His acting was spot on and his facial expressions were there all the time. He was definitely not a stranger to the stage. Frank Hart wouldn't have been the same without his trusty sidekick, Doralee. Doralee was played by Danielle Gavish. Gavish played the whole "backwoods Barbie" scene beautifully, never losing her accent, or her chance to shine on stage with her intense singing and acting.

Erin Locey did a fantastic job of playing Violet Newstead, the stressed out Senior Office Advisor just waiting for her break to be promoted, but who keeps getting beaten out by men. Although her problems were definitely not relatable to everyone in the audience, she did a great job of carrying out her facial expressions and diction; making her enjoyable to watch onstage. Her other teammate, Judy Bernly, played by Jade Zaroff, shone in the brightest of lights with her remarkable singing voice.

The technical aspects of the show were just the icing on the cake. Everything about it was bigger and better - just the way Doralee would've liked it. The set was very innovative; and it was a huge help that the stage crew was able to work together so impeccably to get things done quickly and without a hitch. The costumes were accurate to the time period and helped piece the story together.

West Boca High School's production of "9 to 5" was a great success for high school theater and gave the audience some catchy tunes to hum along to while on their 9 to 5 work shifts throughout the week.

Stephany Goulart
Boca Raton Community High School
Submitted for publication to

It's the late 1970's where the women's labor force is increasing, and gender-based employment and pay discrimination is still a problem. West Boca High School showed us what happens when three women stand up for their rights in their production of "9 to 5: The Musical".

"9 to 5: The Musical", with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and a book by Patricia Resnick first premiered at the Ahmanson Theatre in 2008. The musical brings forth a story of three unlikely friends who conspire to take control of their company and learn there's nothing they can't do -- even in a man's world.

Jade Zaroff, who played Judy Bernly, was brilliant in her performance as a newly divorced woman with no skills in the work room but a sheer determination to be independent. Zaroff not only showed impeccable characterization with her development from an innocent, easily frazzled woman to a woman with confidence and determination in each gaze, but she also had a moving voice which left a mark in the song "Get Out and Stay Out". Danielle Gavish, who played Doralee Rhodes, was hilarious and touching as a misunderstood country girl. Gavish had a lovable Dolly Parton persona, and a voice that could belt and also tell a story. This was showcased in the song "Backwoods Barbie". Erin Locey, as Violet Newstead, conveyed the leader that is going unrecognized, making the most of her sassy dialog with natural movements. This trio was powerful and enthralling.

Sean Javaherian, the company boss Frank Hart, portrayed a leering man with no respect for his female workers. Javaherian depicted a tough, rude man, and was not afraid to show the effects of a one sided carnal desire. This he hilariously showed in the song "Here For You". Melissa Bradely as the bosses' snoop Roz Keith, was very entertaining in her solo "Heart To Hart", and throughout the show as a woman in dire need of a man she can never have.

The ensemble was very compelling and energetic, always in character. They were effective in carrying out the fantasies of each person, and their voices worked very well together. This was especially true in "Around Here" where they brought out the hustle and bustle of the working class.

The technical aspects were well done. The orchestra sounded very good and did not over power the actors at all. Costumes were of the time period and set the production well. Scene changes were well executed and the stage crew was efficient and quiet.

West Boca High School's production of "9 to 5: The Musical" ultimately carried out a captivating and professional show that taught us if we fight for what we believe in, the outcome will be beautiful.

Daniel Lemache
Coral Glades High School
Submitted for publication to

What do you get when three women from completely different walks of life come together to formulate a plan to take over a company and get rid of a tyrannical sexist boss? You get West Boca High School's production of "9 to 5".

"9 to 5 The Musical" by Dolly Parton and Patricia Resnick first opened in Los Angeles in September 2008, and premiered on Broadway in April 2009. The story takes place in a company called Consolidated Industries where women are diligent workers and the men take all the credit. You can see the time period in which the musical takes place is extremely sexist. It isn't until some unlikely friendships are made that things around the office begin to change. The typical single mother (Violet), the southern bell (Doralee), and the new girl (Judy) all become friends in an unordinary way - to get rid of the boss (Frank), and turn Consolidated into an honest company.

West Boca High School's production of "9 to 5" was very well done. Every character added their own special touch to the show that made the overall production fantastic. For example, every minor character had their very own characterization. From the ensemble numbers to the solos, everyone made their energy and presence clear.

The lead actors did great, especially under certain circumstances. Unfortunately one of the leads Erin Locey who played Violet Newstead had laryngitis, but kept her head up high and performed to the best of her abilities. Other lead characters Like Doralee Rhodes played by Danielle Gavish had superb characterization, she definitely rocked the "country" accent. Jade Zaroff also had a spectacular night and an outstanding vocal performance. She really shined throughout the entire show, specifically her solos.

The Supporting cast was fabulous. The crowd thoroughly enjoyed the minor characters and their moments. For instance, Melissa Bradely who played Roz was impeccable. No one expected such an outstanding vocal performance, as well as perfect diction. Eddie Datz, or Joe: Judy's love interest also shined throughout the night. His duet with the character Judy made the audience fall in love with him.

The makeup and costumes fit the time period, and really enhanced each character. Whether it be a company worker or the big boss himself every costume fell perfectly into place.

West Boca High's production of "9 to 5" was awesome and definitely worth watching. A round of applause goes to the West Boca Drama Department.