The exceptional cast of the Ohio Musical Theatre Institute (OMTI) will present 9 to 5: The Musical this weekend at its Black Box theater.

June 27, 2025
Article by Rachel Scofield
Photos by Amanda Frederick

9 to 5: The Musical is a high-energy, feel-good show based on the hit 1980 film, featuring music and lyrics by Dolly Parton.

Set in a 1970s office, it follows three vastly different coworkers—Violet (Holly Bright-Clark), Judy (Lauren Meadows), and Doralee (Belle Fockler)—who bond over their shared frustration with their sexist, egotistical boss, Franklin Hart Jr. (Jim Bevan). Through a series of comic twists, the trio takes matters into their own hands, turning the workplace upside down and discovering the power of friendship, teamwork, and standing up for what’s right.

With spirited numbers like “Backwoods Barbie” and the iconic title song, 9 to 5 delivers both laughs and heart, while touching on themes of friendship, gender equality, and personal empowerment.

“People will enjoy 9 to 5: The Musical for its catchy Dolly Parton songs, hilarious comedy, and empowering story about three women standing up to their sexist boss,” Bright-Clark said. “It’s fun, feel-good, and full of heart.

For me personally, I’ve enjoyed getting back onstage after 16 years! Not only that, but sharing the stage with my 16-year-old son (Nash Bright, who plays Dick)—it’s a dream come true. I’ve also enjoyed working with everyone in the show, especially my two powerhouse ladies I get to sing with every night!”

The production is directed by Allen DeCarlo-Boyd and is one of many opportunities offered by OMTI, a year-round training hub for performers in central Ohio. The Columbus-based institute offers classes, private lessons, audition coaching, summer camps, master classes, and full productions—led by industry professionals committed to building confidence, creativity, and teamwork.

As for Bright-Clark, she is proud to be part of this extraordinary show.

“We put it all together in the matter of four weeks,” she said, “with a cast of performers of differing ages and backgrounds! The OMTI theater is black box–style, so it feels very intimate—you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of the show! Feel free to sing along!”

Performances run June 26–29 at OMTI’s studio, located at 2106 Integrity Drive South. The Thursday through Saturday shows begin at 7 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday.

Tickets are $25 and may be purchased through OMTI’s website. They typically sell out quickly due to the intimate size of the Black Box venue. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early for the best seating.

Next up for OMTI is the musical Grease, which will run July 24–27 at Hilliard Darby High School’s theater.

More photographs of the cast courtesy of the gifted Amanda Frederick!