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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, January 17, 2013
Eye Street Editor Jennifer Self | Phone 395-7434 | e-mail jself@bakersfield.com
Index Monster X Tour ........................................ 22 Ray Manzarek and Roy Rogers ................ 23 ‘Hell and Mr. Fudge’ showing .................. 24 CSUB Piano Studio Recital ...................... 24 MLK Day events........................................ 25 The Lowdown with Matt Munoz.............. 26 Ticket roundup ........................................ 27 Calendar .............................................. 32-33
What a way to make a living Classic 1980 film is brought to life in song at Stars Dinner Theatre BY STEFANI DIAS Californian assistant lifestyles editor sdias@bakersfield.com
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tars Dinner Theatre has poured itself a cup of ambition to end its 2012-13 season. On Friday, the venue brings to life “9 to 5,” the musical tale of workplace friendship and revenge. If the title already has you humming the Dolly Parton anthem from the 1980 film, you’re not alone. Director Bruce Saathoff said this show pays tribute to the workplace classic, which also starred Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda, and will interest fans. “It (the film) was just on TV over Christmas vacation, and I watched it again. It reminded me how close the play is to the movie. I forgot how funny it is. ... I think the film resonates with a certain demographic and they will love the musical.” Along with being a fan of the film, Saathoff also holds a lifelong affection for the country star’s music, making him a natural choice to direct the show. “I grew up in Nebraska listening to Dolly Parton on my grandmother’s eight-track player during Sunday afternoon rides in the country. How could I possibly turn it down?” For those not familiar with the story, it follows the adventures of three women — Violet (Jill Burdick), Doralee (Bethany Rowlee) and Judy (Jennifer Resolme) — who take revenge on their “sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot” boss, Franklin Hart, played by Adam Cline. Although most of the characters hate the man in charge, he has one defender: his assistant, Roz (Tamara White). Her role is more prominent than in the film, a change that Saathoff said should interest audiences. “In the movie, she’s just the secretary, that little bit. They gave her a big production number (in the show), how she loves Hart (called “Heart to Hart”). You wouldn’t expect that of the part. ... I think people will be pleased that Roz’s role has been expanded.” Along with that show-stopping number, the show features the
PHOTOS COURTESY OF PETER W. BECKMAN
The office staff sings the rousing song “Around Here” about how to survive office life in a scene from “9 to 5.”
‘9 to 5’ When: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday Where: Stars Dinner Theatre, 1931 Chester Ave. Admission: $52-$57, $37 for students; show only: $37, $22 for students; matinee: $47$52, $37 for show Information: 325-6100
title song and an assortment of tunes written by Parton. With vocal work arranged by Char Gaines, many songs highlight the three talented leads. “I love the music in this show. In Act 2, Judy, played by Jennifer Resolme, sings a song called ‘Get Out and Stay Out’ that is amazing. It’s her affirmation of selfworth and her acknowledgement that she doesn’t need a man for her life to have worth. Great musical theater.” Choreographed by Brent Rochon and Marnie Forzetting, a
group number stands out for Saathoff as well: “I also love ‘Change It,’ which is the entire cast singing about changing things to make life better. It’s a Dolly Parton classic, and I love this arrangement.” Key to the show is the theme of improving one’s lot in life, which Saathoff believes gives “9 to 5” legs far beyond its source material. “I think the actual story is pretty timeless. Taking charge of your life and making it for the better. That’s a message that rings true all the time. It’s not just about women’s rights — that was an issue when it came out in the ’80s. It’s an affirmation of your entire life.”
Upcoming Stars season With “9 to 5” ending the season at Stars, Saathoff said he doesn’t know what’s next for him, although he’s looking forward to the new season starting in March. “I am very excited about this
Administrative Assistant Roz Keith (Tamara White) sings about her love for her boss, Frank Hart, Jr.
season and a little scared at the same time. It’s hugely ambitious.” The season begins in March with “South Pacific,” directed by
Sheryl Cleveland. (Directors for other shows had not been selected as of press time.) Other big productions include Please see ‘9 TO 5’ / 30