9 to 5 the musical @ Cedar Creek High School

Pour yourself a cup of ambition and get ready to clock in, because Cedar Creek High School is bringing 9 to 5: The Musical to the stage. With big personalities and plenty of workplace chaos, this show proves the workday can be anything but ordinary.

9 to 5: The Musical is a Broadway show with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, based on the 1980 workplace comedy film. The story follows three office workers—Violet, Doralee, and Judy—who are frustrated with their "sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical, bigot" of a boss and start imagining ways to get even. When unexpected circumstances give them control of the office, they transform the workplace and prove they are more capable leaders than he ever was.

Cedar Creek's production of 9 to 5: The Musical delivered an energetic and polished performance, with a cast that fully embraced the humor, heart, and fast-paced spirit of the show. From the student creativity, lighting, and costumes behind the scenes, the production came together smoothly to create an engaging and entertaining experience. Overall, the show highlighted the dedication and talent of the students, both onstage and throughout the technical aspects of the production.

At the center of the production was a group of strong lead performances that brought the story to life. Kaylee Denshuick, as Violet Newstead, commanded the stage with confident acting and a strong presence that captured Violet's determination and leadership. Hannah Kurtz portrayed Judy Bernly with a gentle sincerity, embracing the character's softness while allowing her vocals to reflect Judy's growing confidence throughout the show. Madeline Torchia's Doralee Rhodes kept the audience laughing with her convincing accent and sharp comedic timing, while Joshua Levine played Franklin Hart, Jr. as a perfectly detestable villain, using exaggerated physicality onstage to fully embody the character's over-the-top personality.

Supporting characters, along with a lively and talented Ensemble, added yet another layer of energy and humor that helped bring the production to life. Reese Dolinsky's Roz Keith leaned fully into the character's villain-esque personality, embracing the silliness of the role and delivering plenty of comedic moments. Alexander Gall's Joe was charmingly awkward, and his dorky, genuine interest in Violet made their interactions especially sweet while helping tie that part of the story together. The Night Club Dance Ensemble also stood out, bringing strong energy to the stage with crisp movements and sharp choreography that elevated the musical numbers.

The technical elements of Cedar Creek's production played a major role in creating the world of the show. The lighting design was especially effective, matching each scene well and even reflecting the main female trio's color schemes and aesthetics at certain moments. A completely student-made copier machine effect added a clever and immersive touch that instantly placed the audience in the office setting. The costumes also fit both the time period and each scene perfectly, helping tie together the characters and the overall look of the production.

With big laughs, bold performances, and the spirit of "9 to 5," Cedar Creek High School proves that even a story about the daily grind can shine onstage. Their production of 9 to 5 clocks out on a high note, showing that when teamwork takes over, the workplace—and the stage—can truly change for the better.