By: Sophia Burgos, Overbrook High School, Pine Hill
EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP — Unequal wages, misogynistic workspaces, and inequality, all paired with the excess of egotistical men barking out orders with a hot cup of joe in hand. Cedar Creek High School’s “9 to 5” turns the clock back into the 1970s, where three driven ladies work to reverse these sexist workplace standards.
“9 to 5,” adapted from the 1980s movie and transformed into a musical with Dolly Parton’s crafted music and lyrics, highlights the commonplace harassment and exploitation endured by working women in the 70s. These conditions fostered the stories of three women: the unfaltering and hardworking Violet Newstead, the charming and ambitious Doralee Rhodes, and the timid yet determined Judy Bernly. The trio faced badgering from Franklin Hart, their sexist and self-absorbed boss who abused his power for personal gain. Together, Violet, Doralee, and Judy conducted a plan to bring Hart down in exchange for equity and justice in the workplace.
Cedar Creek’s production perfectly balanced comedy and wit with the unnerving relevance of workplace harassment. From the energizing tunes carried by the vigor of the cast to the saddening yet realistic lamentations of the leads, the musical captured the duality of the workplace for women.
The reserved nature of Judy Bernly was accurately embraced by Hannah Kurtz. Kurtz started out nervous in tone, reflecting Bernly’s insecurities within her office life. Eventually, Bernly found the courage to be independent, a dramatic character arc accentuated by Kurtz’s sentimental performance of “Get Out and Stay Out.” With clear diction and passionate vocals, Kurtz portrayed Judy’s heartwarming growth. Madeline Torchia encapsulated both the glamor and sharpness of Doralee Rhodes. Torchia confidently and clearly sang with Doralee’s iconic Southern accent, as well as demonstrated her kindness through sincere chemistry with the women around her.
Reese Dolinsky razzled crowds as Roz Keith, a hilariously smitten woman head over heels for Franklin Hart. She passionately bared her heart out in “Heart to Hart,” dramatically swaying and swooning over her boss with strong vocals and dynamic physicality. As Roz preoccupied herself with her infatuation with Hart, the office ensemble enthusiastically clocked into their 9 to 5 shift. They showcased the bustling workplace life through song and dance in their opening rendition of “9 to 5,” filling the office with electrifying energy and brilliant vocals.
Cedar Creek’s attentive technical aspects truly took the audience back into the 1970s. The instant the curtains opened, the stage popped with vivid oranges, reds, and teals, adding retro immersion. As the colorful lighting added the dazzle, the authentic outfits added the glam. The cast was dressed in the familiar vintage dresses and suits common in the era. As every shift ended and the next began, the cast appeared with brand new outfits, creatively reflecting the monotonous work days. The attention to time period pieces, combined with the swift transitions made possible by stage crew, effectively brewed life into the story.
Though it was time for the workers to clock out, the cast’s dedication and enthusiasm never did. Cedar Creek’s “9 to 5” truly gleamed and “Shined Like the Sun!”
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