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06 Sept 2025

Carrick-on-Suir Musical Society's 9 to 5 show was deliciously entertaining and fun

The show finished its week long run at the Strand Theatre in Carrick-on-Suir last Saturday

Carrick-on-Suir Musical Society's production of 9 to 5 was deliciously entertaining and fun

Performing on stage in 9 to 5 - The Musical were from left: Jordan Freeman as Doralee, Ashley Lonergan as Judy and Sandra Power as Violet

Carrick-on-Suir Musical Society produced an outstanding and deliciously entertaining annual show with its production of the comedy, 9 to 5 – The Musical, that ended its week long run at the Strand Theatre last Saturday night.

The musical version of the hit 1980 movie about three hard working, put upon secretaries who give their horrible boss his comeuppance was a change in direction and tone for the Musical Society as its last two annual shows were the serious heavy hitters Phantom of the Opera and Chess.

But while 9 to 5 is certainly full of laugh aloud moments and great Dolly Parton songs it’s not a frivolous show with sexism, sexual harassment in the workplace and solidarity among women among its serious themes, albeit treated with a light touch and strong dollop of comedy.

Jordan Freeman, Sandra Power and Ashley Lonergan filled the shoes of Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda as the show’s three central female characters Doralee, Judy and Violet.

The trio were excellent in their individual roles combining great comic timing and acting with top class solo and ensemble singing.

Their exceptional performances were matched by Neil Bourke’s portrayal of their slimey boss Franklin Hart. He simply oozed with lechery and entitlement and really got the audience rooting for his demise.

The show boasted a very strong supporting cast with Bobby Landers and Tarryn Atlee deserving a special mention for their assured performances as the junior accountant Joe and nasty work colleague Roz who is obsessed with Mr Hart.
Atlee clearly channelled her experience playing the evil witch/godmother in Musical Society pantos in her hilarious portrayal of Roz.

The chorus also played a pivotal role in the musical’s overall success. The ensemble song and dance scenes were a delight to listen to and watch.

Overall it was a thoroughly enjoyable, slickly paced show thanks to the talent and hard work of all involved in its staging. Director Martin McNelis and all his team should take a bow.

Check out more photos from the show in this week's edition of The Nationalist now on sale in local shops 

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