The struggles of women in the workplace will be presented through a comedic performance of 9 to 5 The Musical, hosted by the department of music from Catholic University’s Rome School of Music, Drama, and Art Oct. 18-20 at the Hartke Theatre (3801 Harewood Rd. N.E., Washington, D.C.).
In this musical written by notable country singer Dolly Parton, audiences will encounter three female coworkers scheming to get back at their sexist boss. The musical, which first premiered in L.A. in 2008, is an adaptation of the 1980 film co-written by American screenwriter Patricia Resnick alongside Parton. Violet, Judy, and Doralee are pushed to their limits after their boss neglects to give them promotions or equal treatment at the office, and they’re ready to fight back and take control.
“It’s a great commentary on the intersection of male and female relations. It felt right and important to choose this show because it’s relevant to what we’re talking about right now ,” said Jay Brock, director of the performance and chair of the department of musical performance.
This show was chosen because of its variety of musical styles that will challenge musical theater students. Brock also believes it will translate well to the Catholic University student body.
Though the antagonist boss is not as blatantly misogynistic as the film, he still provides an example of the negative ways some women are treated in the workplace as, “an ongoing problem that needs to be addressed,” Brock said.
Performances will take place Oct. 18 at 7:30 p.m., Oct. 19 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Oct. 20 at 2:00 p.m. in the Hartke Theater. Tickets are $20 with available military, student, and faculty/staff discounts.
For more information contact the Hartke Theater at (202)-319-4000 or visit https://arts.catholic.edu/performances-and-events/main-stage-production/9-to-5-the-musical/index.html
Note: Dialogue in the show includes some brief profanity.