Over a hundred productions have now been undertaken by Douglas Choral Union. Year after year fresh and innovative ideas are delivered by them.

Their 2018 musical "9 to 5" confirms that we are in ’a safe pair of hands’ with this Society, as their standard is always professional.

DCU’s Committee and Production Team are master craftsmen in rising to the annual challenge of selecting their show; casting and setting it; organising scenery, props and costumes and then weaving all this magic together to create something appealing to the Manx public.

I don’t intend to relay the story in its entirety, as ’9 to 5’ opened at the Gaiety Theatre on Friday night and will run up until Saturday February 24.

But it charts the varying fortunes of three initially incompatible women who are employed as secretaries in an American corporation and become friends as a result of their mutual maltreatment by their arrogant male boss.

The timing of this production by the DCU could not be more perfect.

Exploitation, power play and gender inequality in the workplace are themes openly explored; all of which are topics in the news.

Because the musical ’9 to 5’ is based on a 40-year old identically-named film, it goes to show that such issues remain relevant and unsolved today.

Anyone familiar with the film will recognise one of its central characters, Doralee, made famous by Dolly Parton.

Locally, the role was played by Emma Bowker, who gave an excellent performance, considering she is studying for her A-levels and has done little in the way of musical theatre previously.

I could not fault her accent or portrayal of this pretty, yet vulnerable woman.

Kristene Sutcliffe and Gemma Varnom both effortlessly slotted into the roles of Doralee’s colleagues, named Judy and Violet, with their experience on the stage evident throughout.

Mention must be made of Gemma’s powerful ballad "Get Out and Stay Out", and Kristene’s interaction with Dean Callow as her suitor Joe, was eminently endearing.

Simon Fletcher, now in his 17th show with Douglas Choral Union, played the male lead Mr Hart. Simon shed his real-life popular persona to depict the aforementioned boss. Despite being a lothario, the said Mr Hart spurned the advances of his PA, Roz, a part taken on by Sonia Callin. Sonia was not only amusing, but showed a great deal of vibrant athleticism.

Everything on the Gaiety stage relies heavily on a backstage crew and the frequent changes of set were smooth and swift.

The ensemble showed versatility in their dancing and vocal skills. It was nice to see that the next generation are playing an active part too, with the involvement of younger chorus members and a group of children.

Good supporting cast members included Liz Dixon, Ben Gale, David Lyons, Neil King, Gary Corkhill and Charlotte and Sam Faragher. This year’s Director was, again, Tony Finnegan and the Musical Director was James Cleeve.

Those who have already bought their tickets can look forward to an energetic evening with catchy music including the well-known title track, provided by a 12-strong band.

by Zoe Cannell

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