Unwind from the droning 9 to 5 grind and join ASU Gammage for the 9 to 5 musical! Follow Violet, Doralee and Judy on their empowering journey in a male-driven workplace. Music and lyrics by Dolly Parton has brought the movie turned play back to life in this comedic and emotional musical. Let’s get to know cast member Mamie Parris who plays Judy Bernley, the office newbie.
Q: Before your Broadway career, have you ever had a 9-to-5 job?
A: I've had a number of "regular" jobs in the past, but as far as 9 to 5 goes, really just one. I temped for about 6 weeks when I was 19. Now that's a thankless job!
Q: Any interesting experiences?
A: Not temping, but when I was a teenager I worked in a chocolate shop. Talk about a kid in a candy store!! We had to throw the leftover chocolate strawberries away (aka take them home with us) at the end of the night, so 20 minutes before closing we'd dip a few more... :-)
Q: How similar or different is the Musical from the 1980 movie?
A: The plot is essentially the same, and people familiar with the film will be delighted to hear some of the familiar lines and witness some familiar hi-jinks. Of course, this is a musical, so in addition to the wonderful score by Dolly, there are a few surprises and new moments just for our show.
Q: Compared to your numerous other roles in Broadway, is there something particularly unique or different about this one?
A: I play Judy Bernly, the role created by Jane Fonda in the film. The thing that makes Judy unique and so fun to play every night is the tremendous journey she makes during the course of the play. When we meet Judy, she's lonely and terrified of her new situation (a recent divorcee and joining the workforce for the first time), but throughout the course of the show, we see her discover a confidence she didn't realize she had. It's an exciting time in her life, which makes it exciting for me to bring to life!
Q: How do you normally prepare for a role?
A: Oh gosh, where to begin! I take the things we know about the character (the things said in the script), and run with them. It's a little like piecing together a puzzle. I'm given certain pieces and have to create the rest to make the picture whole. It's a wonderful experience.
Q: What three words would you use to describe your character “Judy Bernly”?
A: Work. In. Progress. :-)
Q: In preparing for the Musical, did you personally work with Dolly Parton?
A: Dolly is wonderful and has been around a lot. She is a beautiful, genuine person who gives unending support to all of us. The show is her baby, in a sense, though she utterly respects the process and never steps on toes. She lets us bring ourselves to the show and always seems to be thrilled with the results. She's like our tour fairy godmother!
Q: Do you have a favorite song from the Musical?
A: Of course, I love "Get Out and Stay Out", which my character, Judy, sings toward the end of the show. It's a thrilling song to sing and to act. But how can I not pick the hit title song?? I mean who doesn't smile when they hear "Tumble outta bed and stumble to the kitchen, pour myself a cup of ambition..."
Q: What’s the night before/day of show time like? Are there any pre-show rituals for you and the production?
A: For us, it's all about sleeping well, eating right, and staying in shape. My body, my voice- these are the things that make it possible for me to do what I do 8 times a week. So daily gym or yoga time is a must. I generally arrive at the theatre 45 minutes before show time, then it's a bit of stretching, more vocal warm-ups (I do most of mine in the shower :-) ), makeup and wig, and we're off and running. Generally at places Diana and Dee and I meet on stage and have a silly moment together where we stand together and hum. We get along great and it's just a moment to say hi to each other in the world of the show.
Never look at your 9 to 5 workday the same again! A piece of Broadway has made its way to town. 9 to 5 will show at ASU Gammage through February 27th, 2011. Don’t miss out! Buy your tickets here and check out the Daily 60 backstage interviews tomorrow!
