Nashville’s own Erin Parker stars in the role that made Dolly Parton a movie star as she takes on the character of Doralee Rhodes in 9 to 5: The Musical at Virginia’s Barter Theatre, opening on February 23.
Barter Theatre, a professional, non-profit Equity theatre, is the first regional theatre to gain the rights to produce 9 to 5: The Musical, Dolly Parton’s first venture onto Broadway. On February 23, three unlikely friends, Doralee, Violet and Judy, are “taking care of business” at Barter Main Stage.
"I haven't seen many Broadway musicals even to this day," Parton has told reporters in the past. “I didn't know much about it, so I didn't know I was supposed to be afraid of it. I had good guidance, so I thought I could pull it off, and danged if I didn't. I kind of got the bug. I imagine I'll be doing more in the future."
Parton reportedly is at work on a musical adaptation of her own life’s story, which will hopefully find its way to Broadway—and, subsequently, to the rest of America just as her 9 to 5: The Musical has. A musical comedy full of laughter and sidesplitting Southern sass, 9 To 5: The Musical follows three women as they scheme to take control of their company from a chauvinistic and sexist boss. 9 to 5: The Musical is about joining forces and taking care of business.
Ashley Campos, Tricia Matthews and Erin Parker star in this musical based on the film, 9 to 5, which starred Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin (who just happens to be a Barter Theatre alum). The musical follows the film closely and the ladies’ fantasies are a highlight of both.
“Not only do the leading ladies have great chemistry together and a great history with Barter, they have outstanding chops when it comes to singing, dancing and acting. Get ready for spectacular dance numbers,” said Rose. “Plus, nearly all of the members of Barter’s Resident Acting Company are in it, so 9 To 5: The Musical will be grand on every level.”
Rose compares the show to The Full Monty, the 2012 Barter smash hit, with one noticeable difference…everyone in 9 to 5 keeps their clothes on, he says with a chuckle.
“This show has every opportunity to be as exciting and wonderful as The Full Monty, because the story is written so that we care about the characters and want them to succeed. I imagine our audience will hoot, howl and cheer for these women.”
“The story takes place in 1979, and my character, Doralee, and her coworkers, Violet (Tricia Matthews) and Judy (Ashley Campos), are going against societal norms, breaking the glass ceiling, breaking into the boy’s club and that in itself is pretty exciting,” Parker explains.
Parker has gained recognition for her work as artistic director of MAS Nashville—MAS Nashville’s Five was named First Night’s Outstanding Theatrical Event of 2011—and her favorite regional credits include the first national tour of Ring of Fire, as well as performing in Martina McBride’s Joy of Christmas tour. Parker was last seen at Barter as Jenny in The Road to Appomattox, Mora in Dracula Bites and Belle and others in A Christmas Carol.
All three leading actresses and director Richard Rose are extremely excited about the music in the show.
“You don’t have to be a Broadway or country music fan to love this. These are some of the most glorious songs ever written for the stage, and I say that without hesitation,” Rose says.
Perhaps it’s the fact that Dolly Parton is universally revered in the region—or perhaps it is the country-jazzy style of her music, perhaps it is the harmony written that is in the blood of anyone who grew up in the South, or perhaps it is all three that make this some of the most memorable music in theatre.
“You may not know the music now, but you’ll be singing it as you leave the theatre,” Rose adds.
“Shine Like the Sun,” “I Just Might” and “Get Out 'N' Stay Out” are just a few of the cast’s favorites.
“The heart of 9 to 5: The Musical is about women making a difference in the workplace,” suggests Lori Hester, director of patron services at Barter Theatre.
