Willowbrook High School to present '9 to 5'

For anyone who has ever felt out of place at work and been mistreated at the office, Willowbrook High School Theatre has a show you'll identify with - "9 to 5 The Musical."

Performances begin at 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 16 to 18, at the school, 1250 S. Ardmore Ave., Villa Park.

Based on the 1980 movie of the same title, the musical is set in the late 1970s and tells the story of three female co-workers who form a lasting friendship and bond as they come together to take a stand against their boss, Franklin Hart (played by senior John DeAngelo) - who's described as a self-centered, arrogant, chauvinistic bully.

The three women - Violet (played by senior Julia Cicero), Judy (played by senior Kathleen Cicero) and Doralee (played by senior Genevieve Corkery) - plan to take control of the office and, in a hilarious turn of events, end up living out their wildest fantasies.

"We have a tremendous group of talented young women in our theater program, and '9 to 5' yields several female lead roles," Willowbrook Theatre Director Regina Wathier said of why she selected the production.

"The show also has a wonderful message that everyone can make positive choices for themselves, and it reminds us we teach others how to treat us. It's about finding your voice, and I hope the audience leaves feeling empowered."

Kathleen Cicero said it has been a fun challenge to be part of such a classic show.

"The characters are so well-known, and the movie is larger than life, so you want to fulfill the expectations of the audience while adding your own elements as well," she said.

Genevieve Corkery added that the theme of the show is timeless and topical.

"The characters really grow and become comfortable with who they are," she said. "The lesson is to stand up for yourself and don't let others define you."

"9 to 5 The Musical" is rated PG-13. Tickets cost $7 for adults, $5 for students and $3 with an activity pass, and are free with a District 88 Senior Gold Card. To buy tickets, go to dupage88.net/9to5Tickets.