Dolly Parton's Smash-Hit '9 to 5' Musical Is Coming to Australia

Pour yourself a cup of ambition and buy tickets to this.
Sarah Ward
Published on September 12, 2019
Updated on September 12, 2019

First, it was a popular 80s comedy starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. Then, it became a five-season television sitcom led by Parton's real-life younger sister. In 2009, 9 to 5 made the leap to the stage too, because you just can't stop a good story about female empowerment in the workplace. Revived in the West End earlier this year, it's still a huge hit — and now the latest version of the production is coming to Sydney.

Just by reading the show's title, we know that you already have Parton's catchy song of the same name stuck in your head. Pour yourself a cup of ambition, because that tune isn't going away anytime soon. Indeed, you'd best get ready to exclaim "what a way to make a living" more than once when 9 to 5 The Musical plays its Australian premiere season, with its local run playing the the Sydney Lyric Theatre from April 21, 2020.

Ahead of its time when it first reached cinemas, this tale of three women who take on their sexist, egotistical and all-round despicable male boss is obviously still highly relevant today. Before #TimesUp and #MeToo, workmates Doralee, Violet and Judy decided to turn the tables by kidnapping their supervisor and reforming their office. Expect the same story in 9 to 5 The Musical, as penned by the original film's screenwriter Patricia Resnick, just with more songs.

With Parton herself writing the score — and earning Tony and Grammy nominations for her efforts — expect plenty of feel-good music as well. Although she doesn't appear on stage, the famous country star is still involved with the show, and with bringing it to Australia.

While the show will premiere in Sydney, it's possible it'll head to other cities around the country after — cross your fingers and we'll let you know if more dates and locations are announced.

While you're still singing 9 to 5 to yourself, check out Parton's announcement video below:

9 to 5 The Musical will hit Sydney Lyric Theatre at The Star from April 21, 2020, with tickets on sale from 4pm on Friday, September 13. For more information, or to join the ticket waitlist, visit the musical's website.

Published on September 12, 2019 by Sarah Ward
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