9 to 5 The Musical | Morgan-Wixson Theatre Santa Monica

The Morgan-Wixson Theatre is presenting 9 to 5 The Musical in Santa Monica as a highlight of its 80th anniversary season. The production, which features music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and a book by Patricia Resnick, is scheduled for a limited run from May 9 through June 7, 2026.

Performances are held at 2627 Pico Blvd, with shows running Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. And Sundays at 2 p.m.

Production and Narrative Focus

Based on the 1980 hit film, the musical is set in 1979 during the Rolodex era. The plot centers on three female coworkers—Violet, Judy, and Doralee—who reach a breaking point with their sexist, egotistical, and hypocritical boss, Franklin Hart Jr. In a turn of events that blends fantasy and reality, the women plot revenge, give their boss the boot, and implement a dream makeover of their workplace to take control of the company.

Director Amy Coles, who made her debut at the Morgan-Wixson Theatre in 2006 in Bye Bye Birdie and has since performed in over 17 musicals, brings a female-forward perspective to the production. Coles noted that the story remains relevant in 2026 as it satirizes workplace issues such as gender roles, equal pay, and the necessity of holding leaders accountable.

I’m excited to share a story of female friendships and females working together rather than being pitted against one another. Their journey from isolation to collaboration is both inspiring and deeply human.

Amy Coles

Cast and Personal Perspectives

The production is led by Kyrsten Williams in the role of Violet Newstead. Williams described the character as a reflection of strength and resilience, stating that the story resonates with her own experiences.

As a Black woman and a mom working hard to build, provide, and pursue my passion, this story hits home. It felt like an opportunity to step into a role that reflects strength, resilience, and growth.

Kyrsten Williams

Claire Shepard, who portrays Doralee Rhodes, highlighted the timeless nature of the show’s themes. Shepard observed that women and marginalized folks are still overlooked in the workplace and treated inequitably, adding that our real power as women lies in our choices to see and uplift each other through adversity.

The lead trio is completed by Angelica Roqué, who plays Judy Bernly. The supporting cast includes Gregg Strouse as Franklin Hart Jr., Joan Nelson as Roz Keith, and Nathan Correll as Joe.

Creative and Technical Team

The production is supported by a creative team including Music Director Daniel Koh and Choreographer Holly Weber. The show is produced by Cori Goldberg and Spencer Johnson, with Ashley DeFrancesco serving as the Stage Manager.

The musical’s score utilizes orchestrations by Bruce Coughlin, with additional contributions from Stephen Oremus and Alex Lacamoire.