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Canebrake’s “9 to 5” promises uproarious fun

July 24, 2018July 24, 2018 Jan McDonald Alabama, Canebrake Players, community theater, Demopolis

Cathrine Akins trying on her hat as “Judy.”

As director of spring musicals at Demopolis High School for several years, Jody Tartt brings her expertise to the Old School Theater when the Canebrake Players presents “9 to 5” July 27-30.

The musical is complicated, with a large cast, many scene changes, and “challenging, wordy lyrics,” said Tartt. “Some of these songs are a mouthful!”

Performances are at 7 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Monday, and 2 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for students.

However, Tartt stressed, the play is rated as PG-13, primarily for language “but expect to laugh and have a good time.”

“9 to 5” is based on the 20^th Century Fox movie that starred Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda and Dolly Parton as the main characters. Parton later wrote the music and lyrics for the stage version originally produced on Broadway in 2009.

For the Demopolis production, Emi Aultman, Cathrine Akins and Bridgett McLean take on the lead roles respectively. They are joined by several veteran performers such as Suzanne and James McGahey and Jennifer Roemen and newcomer Tanner Ryan.

Tartt found the biggest difference in directing this Canebrake play from one at the high school is the subject matter as well as working with more adults. “I don’t have to discipline anyone here, so it’s less stressful,” she laughed.

Andy Renner, who plays the misogynistic boss in the play, “has a great sense of comedy,” said Tartt. The three female leads have strong voices, and the ensemble understands music and have worked hard to get it right.

Instead of a small live ensemble of musicians used in past Canebrake musicals, the play uses accompaniment tracks provided by the production company. Tartt gave high praise to Meggin Mayben, musical director, for her work in editing those tracks and having them ready in time for adequate rehearsals.

Female leads Cathrine Akins, Emi Aultman, and Bridgett McLean.

Putting on a production during vacation months posed a problem. “Everyone has summer plans, so I feel just having all cast members at rehearsal has been challenging.”

The director said she had a tremendous amount of support from Canebrake Players. Members of the little theater “are a wonderfully dedicated and talented group of people,” said Tartt. “Their love for theater is inspiring. Our cast is fun, and the show keeps me laughing.”

In addition to her on-stage role, Roemen took the lead in pulling together the dozens of costumes for the cast, “and she is amazing,” said Tartt. Volunteers also stepped in to help paint, build sets, hang lights, build props and man the light and sound booth. “They are just a great group of people.”

Cast:

Violet Newstead- Emi Aultman

Doralee Rhodes-Bridgett McLean

Judy Bernly- Cathrine Akins

Franklin Hart- Andy Renner

Roz Keith- Suzanne McGahey

Joe- Tanner Ryan

Dwayne-Jody Glosson

Josh- Henry White

Missy-Brandy Roye

Maria- Evi Zamora

Dick- Delton Rhodes