Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended
"...Too often, the songs just don't seem to land in the right spots in the book or the lyrics don't move the action along sufficiently, or both of the above. But the biggest issue of all is that the plot of "9 to 5" (sexist boss irritates his beleaguered secretaries so much that they finally snap and kidnap him so they can run the company) means that the show has to establish the bad behavior of that boss and that, since this is a comedy, we thus have to laugh at the staging of the aforementioned sexist behavior. Not so funny these days (although Bell nearly busts a gut trying to find the right tone). More workable, perhaps, in 1980, when the movie came out and any number of female workplace advances had yet to happen. Now it just feels like tired material."
Chicago Sun Times - Recommended
"...Yes, "9 to 5, The Musical," now in a zesty, talent-filled production at the Marriott Theatre, is pure, goofy, period-piece fantasy. But it gets the attitudes just right. And because it is the first Broadway effort of Dolly Parton (who transformed the hit 1980 movie in which she starred), it is funny, true, playful and poignant in just the right ways."
Chicago Reader - Recommended
"...Sweet, shallow satire mixes well here with bouncy songs and comic characters. David H. Bell's sprightly direction guarantees there's not a slow moment; credit also goes to a fine cast of triple-threats, led by Alexandra Palkovic, Kelli Cramer, and Susan Moniz (playing roles made famous by Parton, Lily Tomlin, and Jane Fonda)."
ShowBizChicago - Highly Recommended
"...The successful productions of Marriott Lincolnshire Theater's 2013 season continues to impress. After seeing " I Love you , You're Perfect, Now Change, a wonderful production of "South Pacific", "Dreamgirls", " and Now and Forever, "The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber". The Marriott Lincolnshire is now continuing their fabulous year with "9-5, The Musical". This Tony Award nominated musical written by multi Grammy Award winner Dolly Parton, with the original book written by Patricia Resnick is still enjoyable. Even though, the story is 33 years old, it is still very relatable and fun."
ChicagoCritic - Somewhat Recommended
"...How does the musical stand on its own? It was light, frothy, and mindless, a bit outdated, with a few catchy tunes and neat dance numbers, and offering some pertinent pokes at gender inequality in the marketplace."
Around The Town Chicago - Recommended
"...Another hit film being transformed to a stage musical! Are there no new ideas?. One of the reasons I love live theater is the energy that the actors/singers/dancers bring to the stage- this is something that you will not miss when you see the current production on the intimate stage at Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire as they bring to "their" stage, Dolly Parton's " 9 to 5, The Musical". I saw the road production that Broadway in Chicago presented and based on that was not looking forward to attending last night's opening, BUT, seeing as Marriott brought in the creativity of David H. Bell ( Director) and Matt Raftery ( Choreographer), I knew that they would make something special out of this weak script, and they did!"
Chicago Theatre Review - Recommended
"...There are no weak links in this cast. One of Chicago's favorite leading ladies, Susan Moniz's Judy journeys from a shy and inexperienced divorcee to a strong woman capable of telling her ex-husband to "Get Out and Stay Out," one of the production's best numbers. In addition to a flawlessly trained voice, Ms. Moniz uses her expressive face to say so much more than her words. Alexandra Palkovic is sweet and driven as Doralee, the Texan secretary who wants to be known as more than just a pretty face and sexy body. This girl can belt like no one, and she sparkles like a diamond in every scene. Kelli Cramer (who resembles a young Kathy Bates) makes a welcome return to the Marriott stage as Violet, the woman whose hard work goes unrecognized, passed-over for promotions in favor of lesser-skilled members of the Boys Club."
Chicagoland Theater Reviews - Highly Recommended
"...In the final assessment, "9 to 5" is a two star show upgraded by a five star staging. Possibly the show profits from the intimacy of the Marriott space, where all that fine singing and dancing can connect up close and personal with the audience instead of being divided by a proscenium stage and orchestra pit. Bell has toned down the low comedy to allow the human moments to shine through. Nobody will take "9 to 5" as a meaningful exploration the plight of women in the workplace, or a guide to climbing the corporate ladder. "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" is the role model for that kind of show. But the Marriott revival goes a long way to converting this musical comedy sow's ear almost into a silk purse. For that accomplishment, much thanks."