9 To 5: The Musical – Waco Civic Theatre
Waco Civic Theater
1517 Lake Air Drive Waco, Texas. 76710
When three overworked, underestimated women decide they’ve had enough of their sexist, egotistical boss, they turn the workplace upside-down in a whirlwind of wit, rebellion, and friendship. What follows is a raucous, heart-thumping reminder that when we stand together, change isn’t just possible — it’s unstoppable.
Filled with dazzling energy, unforgettable songs, and the unmistakable sparkle of Dolly’s humor and heart, 9 to 5: The Musical celebrates the dreamers, the doers, and everyone who’s ever dared to rewrite the rules.
Waco’s own Holly Tucker steps into Dolly Parton’s high heels as Doralee Rhodes — and she’s every bit as unforgettable!
9 to 5 The Musical is based on the 1980 American comedy film, 9 to 5 that starred Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton and Dabney Coleman.
Come see how three unlikely friends take control of their office and learn there is nothing they can’t do, even in a man’s world!
- Performance Dates: Feb 12 – Mar 1, 2026.
- Rescheduled Dates: Aug 9–11, 2026.
9 to 5 The Musical at Waco Civic Theatre clocks in as a high‑energy, laugh‑out‑loud, “did-they-really-just-do-that?” good time, powered by a cast that works harder than Franklin Hart Jr. works at being terrible. From the opening Dolly Parton anthem to the final bow, the show delivers charm, wit, and enough workplace revenge fantasy to make every audience member reconsider their HR department.
The leading trio — Violet Newstead (played by Chris Gibson), Judy Bernly (played by Ashlee Schmiedekamp), and Doralee Rhodes (played by Holly Tucker) — are the heartbeat of the production. Their chemistry is so natural you’d think they’ve been plotting a corporate coup together for years. Violet commands the stage with sharp comedic timing and a voice that could probably run the office better than Hart ever did. Judy’s transformation from timid newcomer to powerhouse is both hilarious and genuinely moving, and her big vocal moments land with the kind of confidence that makes you want to stand up and cheer. And Doralee? She brings enough sparkle, sass, and Dolly‑approved charm to light up the entire theater — and possibly half of Waco.
Then there’s Franklin Hart Jr. (played by Judson Williams), who leans into the role with such gleeful sleaziness that the audience can’t help but boo, laugh, and occasionally wonder if he’s based on someone real. His physical comedy, facial expressions, and unapologetic villainy are so over‑the‑top that you almost feel bad for him… almost.
The supporting cast and ensemble — including standout moments from Roz Keith (played by Margaret Rast), and Joe (Nicholas Ullenberg), a character created specifically for the stage musical as Judy’s charming love interest, and the entire office crew — keep the show buzzing with energy. Whether they’re dancing through fantasy sequences, reacting to Hart’s latest nonsense, or filling the stage with harmonies, they elevate every scene. Several ensemble members deliver blink‑and‑you’ll-miss-it comedic gems that deserve their own employee-of-the-month plaques.
The production team deserves applause of their own. The staging is clever and efficient, the choreography is lively without ever feeling crowded, and the costumes strike that perfect “1979 but make it fabulous” balance.
In the end, Waco Civic Theatre’s 9 to 5 is everything community theatre should be: joyful, heartfelt, and powered by people who clearly love what they’re doing. It’s a show that works overtime — and the audience is lucky to clock in for it.
