9 to 5 The Musical

Violet is the sort of hard-working employee most bosses would love to have. Unfortunately she works directly under Franklin Hart, a chauvinist who is never going to appreciate her skills or promote her. Newly divorced Judy has rejoined the workforce after a lengthy gap. She learns that the technology has outpaced her, even with excellent mentoring from colleague Violet. And then there's Doralee, Hart's busty personal secretary and, according to him, devoted love slave. These three working gals quickly realize that many of their problems would be solved if the boss was out of the way — and so they hatch a scheme to get him out of the picture. The 1980 film 9 to 5 was a surprise hit thanks to its fizzy feminist approach and wish fulfillment plot. Original star Dolly Parton adapted it into a musical with screenwriter Patricia Resnick (she co-wrote the film); Parton handles the music and lyrics, and Resnick the book. Stages St. Louis continues its season with 9 to 5 The Musical. Performances take place Tuesday through Sunday (July 21 to August 20) at the Robert G. Reim Theatre (111 South Geyer Road, Kirkwood; www.stagesstlouis.org). Tickets are $47 to $63.