In the age of #metoo and Time’s Up, sexual harassment in the workplace has the ability to put anyone on pins and needles. This newfound awareness is part of what makes Victoria Operatic Society incredibly ballsy for deciding to mount a production of 9 to 5: The Musical – a show where the male lead is described throughout as a “sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot.”
However, the community-theatre company handles the touchy subject with a sensitivity and irreverence that is both charming and critical.
One of the most praiseworthy highlights is how committed actor Dwayne Gordon is to his performance of said “sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot” Franklin Hart, Jr. Within seconds of meeting Hart, the audience is cringing, gasping at his horrifically insensitive comments and mannerisms. Despite how over-the-top the role is, Gordon manages to play it straight, removing any notion that he’s in on the jokes, despite the fact that the audience is both roaring with laughter and groaning with horror at his antics.
Equally impressive are the trio of women tasked with taking him down. Francesca Bitonti is strong and commanding as mother-hen Violet Newstead, Tara Britt brings vulnerability and humor to recent divorcee Judy Bernly, and Jolene White tackles the challenging role of backwoods Barbie Doralee Rhodes with gusto and a belt that never seems to quit.
The three women have amazing chemistry, working well with each other to create a hilarious and thought-provoking team. Their voices blend well together, although White’s never-ending belt can at times overwhelm the subtleties the other two bring to the table.
During the opening-night performance, there were a couple technical difficulties with microphones cutting out; the most unfortunate was during Britt’s opening lines of the show. As well, the orchestra and chorus were overpowering at times, making it hard to understand the witty and irreverent lyrics. This was particularly apparent and disappointing during the number “Heart to Hart,” in which Colleen Mares still managed to steal the show as love-sick, Hart-obsessed Roz Keith. However, the actors carried on like professionals, never letting these hiccups detract from their commitment to the performance.
And in a show that is both hysterical and heartbreaking, that is no easy task.
9 to 5: The Musical
Various times, until May 13
Various prices, McPherson Playhouse
rmts.bc.ca/events/9-to-5-the-musical-2018-mcpherson-playhouse