9 to 5 The Musical, UK Tour Review (2026)
There is something wonderfully nostalgic about stepping back into the corporate America of the early 1980s – a world of shoulder pads, typewriters, rolodexes and ringing telephones. Yet beneath the bright colours, catchy melodies and larger-than-life characters of 9 to 5 The Musical lies a story whose themes remain surprisingly relevant today.
Based on the much-loved 1980 film and featuring the unmistakable music and lyrics of Dolly Parton, this touring production cleverly reminds us that whilst society has undoubtedly moved on, prejudice, discrimination and the all-too-familiar "do as I say, not as I do" mentality are never entirely consigned to history. Whether in the workplace, public life or even politics, there are moments that still resonate more than forty years later.
Thankfully, this is never a heavy-handed lecture. Instead, 9 to 5 delivers its message wrapped in two and a half hours of infectious humour, outrageous situations and enough energy to power the office photocopier.
The story follows three very different women brought together by circumstance rather than friendship. Judy, Violet and Doralee each find themselves battling the chauvinistic, self-serving boss Franklin Hart Jr, discovering along the way that teamwork, courage and a healthy dose of imagination can achieve remarkable things. Without giving too much away, the production balances laugh-out-loud comedy with genuine heart, ensuring the audience is invested in every twist and turn.
The chemistry between the three leads is exceptional. Kayla Carter brings warmth and vulnerability to Judy as she gradually discovers her confidence, while Jade Marvin gives Violet exactly the determination, wit and quiet authority the role demands. Karla Tracey is simply irresistible as Doralee, effortlessly capturing both her warmth and resilience whilst delivering Dolly Parton's iconic numbers with style and charm.
One of the evening's standout performances, however, comes from Jessica Martin as Roz. Her hilariously awkward and wonderfully over-the-top devotion to Franklin Hart Jr had the audience roaring with laughter, culminating in one of the show's biggest musical highlights. Opposite her, Tim Rodgers perfectly embodies the smug, manipulative Franklin Hart Jr, creating exactly the sort of villain audiences love to boo.
Around them, the entire company throws itself wholeheartedly into every number. The ensemble rarely stops moving, filling the stage with colour, precision and an infectious sense of fun that carries the audience effortlessly from one scene to the next. Every musical number feels like a celebration, every dance routine packed with personality, and every comic moment lands with impeccable timing.
Much of that success belongs to director Paul Jepson, whose fresh approach breathes new life into this well-loved musical. Alongside choreographer Lisa Stevens and musical supervisor Mark Crossland, he has crafted a production that feels slick, inventive and constantly engaging. Clever visual transitions and imaginative audio touches keep the pace brisk throughout, allowing the comedy to flourish without ever overshadowing the heart of the story.
Ultimately, 9 to 5 The Musical succeeds because it knows exactly what it wants to be: funny, uplifting and unapologetically entertaining. It acknowledges the prejudices of the past while reminding us that fairness, respect and equality remain battles worth fighting today.
If you're looking for an evening filled with laughter, memorable songs and a cast clearly enjoying every moment on stage, make time for 9 to 5 The Musical at Darlington Hippodrome. Brilliantly cast, expertly delivered and overflowing with heart, this is one office party you'll be very glad you attended.
9 to 5 The Musical is at Darlington Hippodrome until Saturday August 8th as part of the limited UK tour. Information about the tour can be found by visiting https://9to5musical.co.uk/
★★★★
Reviewed by Andrew, August 2026.
