Ahead of EU Footlight’s Main Show 9 to 5 that took place this week, the show’s production team liaised with The Student to share some insider details, as well as more show excitement!
Ais: Why did Footlights decide to do this musical? (A modern musical in contrast to last year’s classic Guys and Dolls).
Amy Stinton (Co-Producer and Footlights Secretary): The Footlights Committee has the incredibly exciting task of picking the Footlights February musical every year. We always strive to pick a musical which is super high energy and will leave the cast and the audience feeling elevated but is still refreshing and contrasting with the previous year’s show. We thought 9 to 5 was the perfect fit for the Society! Its’ amazing musical score allows for some fabulous ensemble dancing and singing moments, as well as giving opportunities for our amazing members to show off their talent through the range of interesting and well-developed characters.
Ais: In the days leading up to the show, how are you guys feeling? (Be as honest as you like!)
Eric Rogers (Co-Musical Director): Honestly, I always find the last few days leading up to a show is kind of an inevitable whirlwind of organised chaos! That being said, it’s always the preparation you do in advance: in the rehearsal room and beyond, that sets you up best for that time period, and the work that everyone’s put in beforehand is really showing through. Feelings are good and I’m ready for action!
Ais: How have the fundraising aspects of the show been going?
Abby Brooks (Co-Producer): Fundraising is a crucial part of ambitious projects like this, but it can also be really exciting because of the huge range of possibilities. We were really keen to incorporate the themes of the show into our fundraising and so we hosted a Dolly Parton themed disco in November! The event was a sell-out success and included line dancing, live performances, a DJ, and a whole load of sequins and cowboy hats!
Ais: What character do you most relate to?
Abby Brooks: I think as producers we are most similar to the ensemble of women in the office – doing lots of hard work behind the scenes without most people knowing exactly what our job is!
Eric Rogers: I’m sure Benji will agree with me on this that being an MD on a show is strikingly similar to Violet Newstead’s life – trying to move ahead despite doing a million and one things behind the scenes for the show!
Ais: Is there anything about this show that has felt particularly different to others you’ve been involved in (either because of your role in the show, or something show specific)?
Ellie Jackson (Co-Director): Directing this show has been a completely different experience from my usual role as a performer. One key difference is how I’m thinking about the entire show, not just my own character. I’m responsible for coordinating all the elements, from the blocking to the emotional pacing, and working with every department to make sure the vision comes together. With 9 to 5, there’s also a unique balance between comedy, strong character development, and tackling important themes, which has presented some new challenges in how we approach the tone and energy of each scene. I’m so grateful for this new experience.
Ais: What feeling do you want the audiences to have after the show?
Ellie Jackson: I hope the audience leaves the show feeling uplifted and empowered, with a renewed sense of strength and solidarity. 9 to 5 is a story of perseverance, friendship, and challenging the status quo, and I’d love for the audience to walk out feeling like they’ve shared in a fun, energetic experience while also reflecting on how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go in the fight for equality in the workplace. The overall vibe I hope they leave with is FUN!
Ais: Any funny anecdotes/ behind-the-scenes stories to share?
Hattie Sumners (Asst. Producer): Watching our brilliant set team hunt for a hospital gurney has been the most frustrating yet hilarious process. Who knew that the average gurney would set you back £500? (We did not spend £500, for anyone worried!) It’s also tricky to explain that “No, we are not medical students, we need it for a five-second gag in a student production of 9 to 5…”
Ais: Anything else you’d like to share?
Abby Brooks: After working on the show for many months, we are all unbelievably excited to finally share our hard work with an audience! The talent involved in this show from cast, crew, band, and prod is so impressive and we are all so proud of what we have put together. 9 to 5 is definitely not one to miss – what could be better on a dreary February evening than seeing a Dolly Parton musical about killing your boss?!
Image credit to Andrew Morris