Based on the 1980’s Dolly Parton film, 9 to 5 the Musical is the newest addition to London’s West End, at The Savoy Theatre. Featuring Amber Davies, Caroline Sheen, Natalie McQueen, Bonnie Langford and Brian Conley, with Louise Redknapp reclaiming her role from Caroline Sheen on March 25th after recovering from an injury.

Three female colleagues, Doralee, Violet and Judy lock horns with their sexist and all round horrific boss, Mr Hart. Fed up with being over looked, sexually harassed and being looked down on the three women band together and kidnap their slimey boss and takes the management of the business into their own hands.

I went to see 9 to 5 the Musical on Tuesday 12th March, the set, as can be seen in the image above, is very impressive with the infinity feel and illusion of never ending office lighting. The Boxes on the very front of the set are all screens that feature Dolly Parton herself in the introduction, Dolly is first introduce the clock face of the 9to5 set up.

9 to 5 the Musical is Amber Davies major introduction to the West End, whilst we all know her as “Amber from Love Island” though in honesty I only know that from the media, I’m not a fan of reality TV. Her performance playing Judy is the ticket she needed to strip away that reality TV label, she really shines and proves that she is in her own right an outstanding stage actress with a very impressive set of vocals. She delivered a flawless and hilarious performance.

Who really shined in my own opinion was Natalie McQueen, her portrayal of Dolly’s Doralee was flawless, right down to accent, vocals and body language, she oozed Dolly. Bonnie Langford and Brain Conley where the prime comedians of the show, more than once they had me laughing with tears streaming down my cheeks.

Bonnie plays Roz Keith, a female employee head over heels for Mr Hart, she follows him around like a love sick puppy, enforcing his ridiculous rules. Her performance of heart to hart was wonderful, entertaining and hilarious. Brian Conley delivered Mr Hart perfectly, we all hated him and laughed hysterically at his misfortune.

Writing theatre reviews can be difficult as you don’t want to give too much away, 9 to 5 the musical has received very mixed reviews from the UK’s media. I thoroughly enjoyed the show, and would rate it myself four out five stars.

Photo Credit: Craig Sugden