Country Music Artists

The 1980 film "9 to 5," starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, has been turned into a stage musical that is set to premiere in September 21st at the Center Theatre Group/Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles.

The musical stars Allison Janney (of the 2008 movie Hairspray and TV's The West Wing) as Violet Newstead, Stephanie Block (Wicked, The Pirate Queen) as Judy Bernly, and Megan Hilty (Wicked) will step into Dolly's former role of Doralee Rhodes. Two-time Tony Award nominee Marc Kudisch will play the "sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical, bigot" Franklin Hart Jr., which was actor Dabney Coleman's role in the movie.

In addition to the title track for the production, for which Dolly received an Academy Award nomination, the buxom blonde also wrote brand new music for the stage musical, including the title track of her new studio album, "Backwoods Barbie."

"9 to 5: The Musical" will be directed by two-time Tony Award winner Joe Mantello and choreographed by Andy Blankenbuehler. The show runs through October 19th and is aiming for a Spring 2009 Broadway release in New York City.

For more information, visit www.centertheatregroup.org.

By: Mary Lynne O'Neal