La Jolla Playhouse: 80s Nostalgia Production

Here’s a breakdown of the key points from the⁤ provided text, ⁢summarizing the review of the​ “Working ⁣Girl” musical:

Overall Impression:

* The musical focuses⁢ more on capturing the feel ‍ of the 1980s than directly adapting ‍the empowering message ‌of “9 too 5.” It leans into the⁢ nostalgia (and some of the problematic aspects) ​of the decade.
* While the show has potential, it ‌doesn’t quite live ⁤up to‌ the sharpness of the original ‌screenplay.

Music ‌& Lyrics (Cyndi Lauper):

* ​ lauper’s music is catchy and attempts to blend a‌ retro 80s sound ⁢with contemporary appeal. It’s described as sounding like a⁢ “recently unearthed‍ pop album.”
* The opening number⁣ is energetic and period-appropriate,but the lyrics ​(“looking for something more”)‌ are somewhat ​generic.

Plot & Characters:

* The musical follows the basic premise ⁣of the ​film: Tess, a secretary, seizes an opportunity when her boss is injured and pretends to ⁣be an executive.
* ⁢ The show expands Katharine’s role (compared to the film), giving the actress playing her more to‍ do.
* The review highlights a key plot point: Tess’s idea is stolen by her new boss.
* The musical touches on themes⁤ of workplace sexism and objectification, ⁣but doesn’t necessarily offer a strong, ⁢empowering message like ⁣”9 to 5.”

Staging &⁤ Presentation:

* There’s a​ slight disconnect ⁤between the period‌ setting​ and ‌some ⁣modern staging choices (e.g.,LED screens representing the statue of Liberty).

Key Quote:

* “Dress shabbily and they notice the dress.Dress impeccably⁣ and they notice the woman.”‌ – a quote from Coco Chanel used as advice‌ to Tess.

In essence, the review suggests a fun,‍ nostalgic show with​ good​ music, but ⁤one that doesn’t quite reach the full⁣ potential of its source material.