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Salem theater’s ‘9 to 5’ is a good day’s work
By Eric McCrea
SALEM
Although it has difficulty living up to the film that inspired it, “9 to 5 the Musical” offers a little nostalgia, and a lot of new songs. Salem community Theatre is bringing its season to a close with the production, which opened Friday and continues this weekend.
Violet Newstead, played by Yvonne Ams, excels at running her office, but her sexist boss Frank Hart (Matthew Schomer) takes all the credit. After harassing his secretary Doralee (Tara Lee Holl) and screaming at the new hire Judy (Anya Miller) he unceremoniously fires poor Maria (Amber Mondak) just for talking about the wage gap.
Violet, Doralee, and Judy bond over their mutual hate of Hart, and they each plot how they would kill their boss. The next day, one of them almost does, but failing to do so, leads them to rash actions.
As they hold their boss hostage for a month, they turn the office into a virtual utopia, which doesn’t go unnoticed by the executives.
The story is nearly identical to the movie, but with original songs added, written by Dolly Parton, who also makes a few appearances via video clips. The cast also creatively pre-recorded a few scenes, adding some Hollywood style to the show.
Schomer was an early standout, bringing up the energy and giving an enthusiastic performance in “Here for You.”
Sarah Kinser turned an average song into a real showstopper with her “Heart to Hart” in the role of the brown-nosing Roz Keith.
Miller was charming as fish-out-of-water Judy, She had a sweet voice that enhanced all the songs she was a part of. Her solo came late in the show, but it was one of the best.
Holl had amazing presence on stage. Her song “Backwoods Barbie” was the catchiest song, aside from the title number, and really laid down the framework for her character.
Ams was a solid leading lady, and she seemed comfortable as team leader.
Mondack, along with Ruth Newman’s Kathy and Meg Wack’s Margaret, provided a lot of interest to the show. Their side stories, at times, were more intriguing than the main plot, which is slightly weaker than the film.
The show had an amazing set, utilizing vintage props from the late ’70s. A wide open stage was a great touch, and allowed a simple, but extremely well-operated elevator to be a focus. The beds used in the opening number were a lot of fun as well.
Overall, this stage translation lacks the magic of the film, but the cast and crew at the Salem Community Theatre made a great go of it, and added their special touches, making the evening a real delight.
“9 to 5: the Musical” will run Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. For reservations, call 330-332-9688. The theater is at 490 E. State St., Salem.