Bethany Cox (Doralee) , Andrea “Andee” Thorpe (Violet) & Lauren Sutton-Beattie( Judy) Photo by Marilyn Izdebski
Novato Theater Company delivers a fast-paced, vibrant, top-grade production of “9 to 5,” adapted from the 1980 film. With music and lyrics by the dynamic Dolly Parton and book by Playwright Patricia Resnick, the songs surpass the flimsy plot. Yet the play remains highly entertaining and lots of fun.
Doralee, Violet, and Judy struggle in a male-dominated, sexist office with a lecherous boss. Although less common today, the office as a toxic workplace still resonates with audiences. The familiar “9 to 5” theme song, performed by the ensemble’s rich vocal presence, ignites the evening incapsulating the corporate world:
“You gotta get it right on the first try, honey / Because each mistake means they are losing lots of money / No time to dilly-dally / No time to bend the rules / Because there are ones that keep a tally.”
Sexism, misogyny, and gender inequality underscore the environment. But NTC’s staging, keenly directed by Larry Williams, unfolds with comic flair, satirical bite, and dynamic energy. Music director Nick Brown, along with musicians Michael Wray, Evan Ceremony, Noah Hornick, and Dean Cook, infuse Dolly’s songs with fresh vitality. Choreographer Marilyn Izdebski keeps fifteen characters moving with seamless pacing and flair.
Andrea Thorpe shines as Violet Newstead, seething Administrative Assistant with disdain. Yet she is weighed down by anxiety as a single parent and disrespected secretary. Bethany Cox, as buxom Doralee Rhodes, bristles against sexual stereotypes and unwanted advances. Cox’s powerhouse vocals elevate Backwoods Barbie, a standout number that deepens Doralee’s character. The piece serves as a bridge to Parton’s life. She seamlessly ties the personal to the performance. Lauren Sutton-Beattie gives a superb performance as Judy Bernly, the timid divorcée who discovers her own strength. Together, their voices blend with stunning harmony.
Pat Barr is spot-on as Franklin Hart Jr., the boss everyone loves to hate. His exaggerated demands and foolish antics heighten the comedy, consequently making his downfall especially satisfying. As his kindhearted opposite, Nick Kealy brings warmth and humor as Joe, the gentle accountant smitten with Violet.
Amy Dietz, as Roz Keith, swoons and pines for Hart with over-the-top hilarity, trailing him like a love-struck puppy.
“9 to 5” brings laughter, anger, empathy, and joy as these women transform from powerless to empowered.
The ensemble is uniformly strong—dancing, singing, and acting with power, precision, and pizazz.
Take the time to relax with the crew of “9 to 5.” Enjoy seeing old office politics and revel in how much has changed for many women in the workforce. Thanks to remote work, stronger Human Resources, and written rules against harassment or discrimination, the workplace is constantly evolving. Yet, it has a long way to go.
Novato Theatre Company does it again—delivering an evening of pure enjoyment while shining a light on a deeper psychological issue. Come see it.
“9 to 5” Music and Lyrics by Dolly Parton, Book by Patricia Resnick, directed by Larry Williams, Lighting Designer: Frank Sarubbi, Sound: Design: Sound Logic, Inc, Costume Designer: Adriana Gutierrez, at Novato Theater Company, Novato, California Info: novatotheatercompany.org till October 12, 2025
cast: Andrea Thorpe, Lauren Sutton-Beattie, Amy Dietz, Franklin Hart , Larry Williams, Nick Kealy, Anthony Evans, Bob Derham, Paul Gusciora, Jared Gaulding. Carly Leahy, Kim Seipel, Michele Blazek, Sarah Catherine Chan, Shari Clover