9 to 5 The Musical
at Rock Ridge High School

Reviewed on December 1, 2018

Devin Lucas
St. Andrew's Episcopal School
Submitted for publication to Cappies News

Sometimes, we all could use a little change. In the case of Rock Ridge High School's "9 to 5", change is just what Violet, Doralee, and Judy need, and the three women will go to wild, comedic, and serious lengths to make that happen.

Based on the 1980 movie, "9 to 5" premiered in Los Angeles in September of 2008 before moving to Broadway in April of 2009. With music and lyrics by the beloved Dolly Parton, as well as a book by Patricia Resnick, this musical garnered a whopping 15 Drama Desk Awards, as well as four Tony nominations, before closing in September of 2009. Shortly after its Broadway run, the show soon toured nationally, and abroad in the U.K.

There is no doubt about it - "9 to 5" is a beast of a show. Not only is it jam-packed with choreography and tight harmonies, but many numbers require the cast, including leads, to overlay singing and dancing without losing an ounce of character. In addition, some of the show's rather raunchy scenes require an incredibly amount of commitment. To the students of Rock Ridge High School, however, this challenge seemed to be no more than a day's work. With unfaltering energy, focus, and commitment, these students charged full-force at the material, proving their incredible capabilities.

At the center of this feminist comedy are three utterly fed-up women: Violet Newstead, Doralee Rhodes, and Judy Bernly, played respectively by Lauren Janoschka, Megan Buss, and Katie Howard. Together, the three embodied the sense of sisterhood and strength that carries this show, working off each other for stellar comedic timing, character development, and vocal blend. Each had distinct and focused character choices, backed by powerful voices and exceptional dancing. In the number "One of the Boys", Janoschka exhibited her skills, executing a number full of spunk and charisma while never missing a dance step or seeming out of breath. Buss, portraying the constantly underestimated Doralee, shone in "Backwoods Barbie", giving her character heart and intelligence with a sweet country voice and a spot-on accent. Meanwhile, Howard's soulful vocals, impressive range, and thoughtful character came through in her triumphant rendition of "Get Out and Stay Out."

Other notable performances came from actors such as Farley McDaniel, playing the detestable Franklin Hart, Jr., and Nico Zavala, the lovable and soft-spoken Joe. Unrestrained and unapologetic, McDaniel expertly portrayed Hart's sleazy greediness, throwing himself into the role with impeccable comedic timing and understanding of physical comedy. In complete contrast, Zavala's sweet and caring portrayal of Joe was matched by his graceful movement and melodic voice.

In truth, there are more noteworthy aspects of this show than can be fit into one short review. In addition to the performances of leads and supporting actors, the ensemble was indispensable, bringing every scene to life with stunning and cohesive choreography written entirely by Savannah Sides, consistent vocal power, and fully-developed characters. The technological aspects were equally impressive, with symbolism worked into every detail of costuming, lighting, set, and more. No touch, no detail, no matter how small, was missed.

In this stunning production of "9 to 5", the all-around commitment of everyone involved, whether onstage or offstage, made this show all that it was: hilarious, heartfelt, rousing, and triumphant.

Syd Kirk
McLean High School
Submitted for publication to Cappies News 2

Kidnap the boss, tie him up, clean up the evidence, and take over his office: sounds like a typical day at work! Joy to the girls as they serve justice at Rock Ridge High School's production of "9 to 5!"

"9 to 5: the Musical" is based on the 1980 movie of the same name, starring Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton, and Jane Fonda. The lively music and lyrics are written by Dolly Parton with a hilarious book by Patricia Resnick. Opening on Broadway in 2009 to critical acclaim, the musical comedy received both Drama Desk and Tony nominations. Set in the late 1970s, the show follows three strong-willed women and their misogynistic boss as they navigate the harsh reality of what it's like to work in a "man's world." This empowering show celebrates women's fight for equality and is especially appropriate in the era of the #MeToo movement, which raised awareness about sexual harassment in the workplace.

The resolute and independent Violet Newstead was portrayed by grounded Lauren Janoschka. Janoschka's leadership qualities, impressive vocals, and witty comebacks demonstrated a professional ability far beyond her years. Megan Buss stood out in the trio for her role as the sweet, but misunderstood Doralee who wants to be recognized for more than just her good looks. Buss's consistent southern accent was complemented by her lovely soprano voice. Katie Howard as Judy Bernly also handled challenging vocal numbers with finesse and gave a raw performance with emotional maturity. Her show stopping number "Get Out and Stay Out," showed off Howard's extensive range and belt. The three women worked well together, creating an entertaining and heartfelt dynamic.

A host of talented supporting and ensemble actors added to the spirit of the show. The "sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot" boss was played by Farley McDaniel, who mastered the creepy and derogatory nature of Mr. Hart. McDaniel put on an unbelievably comical performance with his hilarious facials and body movement during "Here for You." The backbone of the show, the entire ensemble, met the demanding musical numbers with unwavering energy and commitment. The cast was full of immensely talented dancers, evident when they tackled a variety of solos and dance styles. Every soloist merited cheers from the audience as they successfully distracted from the transitions going on behind them.

Technical elements helped bring "9 to 5" to life, and many components came together to put on a visually striking production. Particularly exceptional was the professional caliber of the lighting and the set. The ambitious lighting design included unforgettable silhouettes that added an surreal quality to the show. Additionally, lighting cues were always well timed and spot on their marks. A revolving turntable completed the grandiose set, exhibiting the technical difficulty taken on the the scenic designer and set construction. Period costumes enhanced the production with persistent color schemes for many of the main characters that highlighted the 70s aesthetic. There were no mistakes with the 100 costume changes, which were handled with efficiency and experience.

Woven into the show is a message of female strength. Rock Ridge High School's production of "9 to 5" reminds us that no matter how women are treated, they will always have the power to stand up against indecency and fight for what is right.

Mary Kate Ganley
McLean High School
Submitted for publication to Patch.com

As the iconic Dolly Parton says, "If something in your life isn't sitting right, then fix it." Change comes in many forms, and in Rock Ridge High School's performance of "9 to 5," change is presented through a heartwarming and hysterical musical that shows that dreams are different for everyone. For some it means climbing the corporate ladder, and for others, it just means a "Life Without Dick."

The 70's were a fun time for most, with Atari and Barbie, it's easy to overlook the women of the late 70's, struggling during the economic spiral, the ones like the three main women in the show "9 to 5." With music and lyrics by country sensation Dolly Parton, the musical premiered in Los Angeles in 2008, and opened on Broadway in 2009. "9 to 5" is a feminist piece that follows three working women: single mother Violet, a hardworking but overlooked employee, Doralee, a beautiful yet sensitive country girl, and Judy, whose divorce from her husband, Dick, left her in need of a job. The plot centers around their struggle for power against their sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot of a boss, Mr. Hart. In a hasty cover up, the leading women kidnap Mr. Hart and decide to run the office the ways they see fit."9 to 5" may be a humorous story, but it also carries several fundamentally messages along with it.

Committed and honest, Lauren Janoschka's performance as Violet Newstead was delivered with a steadfast passion and that made her a reliable, mature character throughout the performance. Janoschka held her own throughout, yet worked seamlessly with her partners in crime. Doralee Rhodes, played by Megan Buss, supplied big personality and an even bigger accent, one she maintained throughout difficult songs with intricate dance numbers like "Cowgirl's Revenge." Backing up the two, bringing her own quiet, reserved yet bubbly and quirky personality to back up the other two was Katie Howard as Judy Bernly. She held her own spectacularly with vocals, shining spectacularly in "Get Out and Stay Out," and wrapped up the performance with an unprecedented power.

Accepting a role as an antagonist is one thing, throwing yourself into such a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot that Mr. Franklin Hart Jr. is is a different story, and one executed by Farley McDaniel with no question. Along with his commitment to the role, he brought considerable, albeit creepy, enthusiasm to the predatory anthem "Here for You."

With a staggering number of technical elements, "9 to 5" was a spectacular amalgamation of student work. Lighting, headed by Alexa Janoschka, brought colors to each character, and excellently used silhouette to match the costumes. Throughout near silent set changes, skilled dancers performed short dances that reflected the events that took place in the preceding scene. All choreographed by one student, Savannah Sides, the musical numbers were uniform, synchronized, and delightful to watch. With over 300 carefully utilized props and a revolving stage, the overall effect of the performance was unique, organized and, above all, unified.

When it comes down to the hustle and bustle of life, the fulfillment of dreams, and the unrelenting justice of karma, "9 to 5" captures it all. In the end, it really seems like Rock Ridge High School took the words of Dolly Parton to heart.

Sophie Stapleton
Loudoun Valley High School
Submitted for publication to Loudoun Now

A wide array of neon hues washed the stage. The growl of a bluesy electric guitar filled the auditorium. Dolly Parton's southern drawl announced each character as they sashayed into view. It was then, as anticipation and energy bounced off the walls, that we knew Rock Ridge High School was about to take us on a wild ride.

9 to 5: The Musical tells the story of three unsatisfied women and their journey to becoming strong, independent women. Based off of the 1980 movie, with music and lyrics by the iconic Dolly Parton, the production received fifteen Drama Desk Award nominations in one year, along with four Tony Awards nominations.

Boiling over with energy and pizzazz, Lauren Janoschka (Violet Newstead) showed immense skill, which was evident in numbers such as One of the Boys; her ability to execute high-level choreography and belt for three minutes straight spoke volumes of her talent. Right next to her was Katie Howard (Judy Bernly); she developed her character's story arc with maturity and grace. If her stellar acting chops were not impressive enough, Howard's vocal range was high enough to shatter the glass ceiling'. The third in this great trio of strong women was Megan Buss (Doralee Rhodes). With a voice as smooth as butter, Buss delivered a fun and goofy performance, recreating Dolly Parton's iconic role with spunk.

Though awkward at first, Nico Zavala (Joe) exuded a sweet charisma that caused the audience to root for him in his constant pursuit of his love interest, and his silky voice captured hearts. Together, Zavala and Janoschka created a genuine, honest relationship with an even development throughout the show.

Farley McDaniel (Franklin Hart Jr.) was faced with a challenging feat when diving into his misogynistic, immoral character, but he delivered it with style. His energy, commitment, and comedic timing made the audience cringe in the best way possible.

Altogether, the ensemble enhanced the show with near flawless execution of multiple-part harmonies, gorgeous vocal blending, and show-stopping choreography. They were in sync, passionate, and working as one unit, which took the production to an entirely new level.

With over 200 props and a multi-faceted set, it is an absolute wonder that all the elements and each transition worked together so seamlessly. As various people came down center stage, silhouetted by colorful lights meant to set the mood, they told a story through dance; this provided the perfect distraction from the seemingly unblemished set changes taking place behind them. One such dancer was Elle Ouimet (Maria); her gorgeous technique was breathtaking. Attention to detail regarding the set made the production that much more aesthetically pleasing and technically impressive.

Adding to the aesthetics of the production were the stunning lights. Each wall, dance number, or soft moment was punctuated flawlessly with jewel-toned LEDs and frolicking spotlights. Matching colors with characters' personalities and coordinating with costumes, the lights made a lovely spectacle for the audience to enjoy.

Perhaps the most impressive feat of all was the professional-level choreography by Savannah Sides. Each movement was clean, crisp, and completely meshed with the story; entirely by herself, Sides put together masterpieces of musical splendor.

Consistently high energy, intense focus, acute attention to detail, and admirable tech elements worked together to beautifully envelop the audience and leave them wanting more.

Johnathan Breaux
Robinson Secondary School
Submitted for publication to Loudoun Times-Mirror

"9 To 5" is based off the 1980 smash-hit comedy of the same name, starring Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. The original also features country icon Dolly Parton in her debut film role, and she also wrote the music and lyrics for the staged show. The show, now playing at Rock Ridge High School, follows three secretaries who rebel against their boss who is, to put it as the script does, "a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot" (played by Farley McDaniel). The three audacious office workers, who go by the names of Violet, Doralee and Judy, (played by Lauren Jansochska, Megan Buss, and Katie Howard, respectively) were excellent in their own way, but the trio shined especially bright when they were together.

Speaking of shining bright, the lighting design by Alexa Janoschka was exemplary. All of it seemed crisp and meticulous while also being deeply ingrained in the emotional context of the scene. Janoschka was also innovative with her use of the six LED boxes that flanked the stage,which added physical depth to the light programming, something you don't often see in highschool shows. The show's set design was also exceptional, featuring stunning pieces such as an opening and closing elevator, three bathroom stalls, and two vending machines along with a fully functioning turntable. The turntable was not motorized, ingeniously operated instead by the office's janitors, who would lock their brooms into the wheel and turn it with a myriad of cast members singing and dancing on top.

While the show's tech was outstanding, it was not without its standout performances. Farley McDaniel, who played the "sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot" of a boss, Mr. Hart, was distinguished in his disgustingness, and brought just enough comedy to the role that you'd always want more of him, but not so much that the character became likeable. McDaniel's performance was supported by that of Megan Hilbert, who played Roz, an office worker head over heels in love with Hart. Roz's big number, Heart to Hart, was a showstopper, and Hilbert portrayed the character in a way that you could hate, sympathize, and laugh at, occasionally all at the same time. Katie Howard showed off her amazing vocal ability in Judy's anthem Get Out and Stay Out, and Megan Buss truly channeled Dolly Parton as Doralee Rhodes. The most markedly excellent performance, however, was that of triple threat Lauren Janoschka playing Violet. Janoschka was the comedic backbone of many of the secretary's scenes, and also stopped the show in One of the Boys, where she sang brilliantly while also dancing vigorously with nearly the entire male ensemble (who were exemplary in their own right). All in all, Rock Ridge's "9 To 5" merged ambitious technical elements with a top-notch cast to create an absolutely wild ride in the office.