9 To 5: The Musical, Broadway’s smash comedy, will open for business at the St. Jacobs County Playhouse March 7 to 25.
Based on the motion picture, this story of friendship, female empowerment and revenge in the Rolodex era features the blockbuster title song, plus an exciting score of 18 original numbers penned by music icon and film star Dolly Parton.
“We are very excited to launch our 2012 season with this high-energy production. Audiences are going to be thoroughly entertained,” said Alex Mustakas, artistic director of Drayton Entertainment.
“Three incredible female performers have been cast in the leading roles and I have no doubt that ‘girl power’ will be emanating from the stage.”
Audience favourite Lisa Horner takes on the role of super-efficient office manager Violet Newstead, portrayed by Lily Tomlin in the 1980 film. Theatregoers will recognize Horner from her performances in Hairspray and How the Other Half Loves in 2011, as well as being the infamous “Start the car” lady in the popular Ikea commercial.
Jayme Armstrong, who played Rosemary in Drayton Entertainment’s production of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, as well as many previous smash hits, will tackle Jane Fonda’s movie character: the frazzled divorcee and office newbie, Judy Bernly.
Joanna Guistini plays the sensational secretary Doralee Rhodes, a role made famous by Dolly Parton.
After a 12-year hiatus Mustakas himself will return to the stage in this production as Franklin Hart Jr., who is loathed as a “sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical boss.”
“I am really looking forward to getting back on the boards,” said Mustakas, who is also directing one of the largest casts the theatre company has ever assembled.
Joining him on the creative team is music director Robert Foster and choreographer Gino Berti, both of whom were instrumental in the creation of Drayton Entertainment’s popular Legends series.
In an on-going effort to create opportunities for community involvement in the performing arts, Drayton Entertainment is capitalizing on this production to provide local up-and-comers with the opportunity to work alongside seasoned professionals.
9 To 5: The Musical runs from March 7 through 25. Tickets can be purchased in person at St. Jacobs Country Playhouse, online at www.draytonentertainment.com or by calling 519-747-7788 or toll free 1-855-Drayton (372-9866).
