Theatregoers in Peterborough were the first to see Landmark Theatres’ new production of 9 to 5 – The Musical as it opened at the New Theatre, Peterborough ahead of a national tour that runs until 13 September 2026. The stage adaptation, built around the music and lyrics of Dolly Parton and a book co‑written by Patricia Resnick, revisits the workplace comedy that has resonated since the original 1980 film.
Cast, themes and reception
The Peterborough performance featured a principal trio of performers: Jade Marvin as Violet, Kayla Carter as Judy and Karla Tracey as Doralee, with Tim Rogers portraying the employer Franklin Hart Jr. A production image from the New Theatre was credited to Louise Waldron.
The reviewer awarded the show three stars and described it as broadly entertaining and good‑natured:
"9 to 5 – The Musical is unchallenging good‑hearted stuff, providing entertainment and laughs without ever giving the brain too much to think about."
Set in the late 1970s, the plot follows three women at Consolidated Industries who, frustrated by workplace sexism and stalled careers, seize an unexpected chance to reimagine their working lives. The narrative leans into farce and sitcom‑style misunderstandings while retaining a core message about equality and collective empowerment.
What the run in Peterborough means locally
For Peterborough, hosting the opening night of a touring production places the city on the cultural map for regional theatregoing audiences. The New Theatre has been steadily programming a mix of touring musicals and plays, and this engagement is likely to attract visitors from across the wider Cambridgeshire and East of England areas during its short stay.
- Tour run: Production opens in Peterborough and tours until 13 September 2026.
- Creative origins: Music and lyrics by Dolly Parton; book by Patricia Resnick.
- Local cast highlights: Jade Marvin, Kayla Carter, Karla Tracey; Tim Rogers as Franklin Hart Jr.
Local audience takeaways
Audiences seeking a light, well‑paced evening of musical comedy will find much to enjoy. The production's emphasis on friendship and workplace reform resonates with contemporary conversations even as it keeps to a broadly upbeat, farcical tone. For those tracking the New Theatre’s programme, this opening underlines the venue's role in attracting touring work and provides a timely option for summer theatre in Peterborough.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Venue | New Theatre, Peterborough |
| Production | 9 to 5 – The Musical (Landmark Theatres) |
| Tour end date | 13 September 2026 |
| Reviewer rating | Three stars |
Ticket availability and further tour dates are being handled by Landmark Theatres and the New Theatre box office. For Peterborough residents, the engagement offers an immediate chance to see a familiar story retold on stage and to support the city’s continuing role as a launchpad for touring theatre.
