“I know you’re going to do a fantastic job putting it together! “ announces Dolly Parton herself,  thrilled that Elkhart High School is putting on her musical production: 9 to 5.

The musical starts tonight (Friday, March 14)–and staff and students are excited to step back a few decades to see what life was like for working-class women. Based off of the movie with the same title, the title characters of violet, Doralee, and Judy will take the audience on a journey as they teach their boss–Mr. Hart–what “woman power” is all about.

Although ready for the curtain to rise at 7  p.m., the cast and crew were getting nervous that the e-learning days and other unexpected delays would set them behind. Olivia Gutierrez, a senior and one of the lead roles, reacts. “Overall, the process has been quite exhilarating. We put lots of extra work in and made up for all the time we lost.” Although there have been some setbacks, Gutierrez also mentions that “being part of the musical is such a fun experience when everyone works together and can revel in each other’s success.” 

Building off that thought is cast member Rowan Ternet, a sophomore. “The entire cast is so incredibly talented, and for most of them, they are pushing themselves farther than they have ever gone.” Every member is important to the production; no role is too little! Director Mrs. Kristin Baker gives her all so that the students can give it their all, as well.  “Directors also look for people who are teachable and bring positive vibes to the table,” notes Gutierrez. “Because there are so many aspects to putting a musical together, casting people who are hard to work with isn’t really any option.”

In the case of this particular musical, there are many strong topics that the the cast had to address. “This musical is a silly and entertaining show that brings to light the equality of women in the workforce,” Gutierrez points out. “It’s super fun and playful but also very heartfelt and relatable.” Rowan agrees. “This musical is very tolerant, advocating, and powerful. It gives a voice to the unheard.”

Set in the 80s, the musical reflects the unheard voices and issues of that day that are addressed more openly nowadays. But, the lessons brought to light are ones still work singing about.

Doors open tonight at 7 p.m. in the EHS auditorium. A second showing will be Saturday at 7 p.m., with a matinee on Sunday at 2 p.m.