9 to 5's Understudies Are Ready To Charm You!
It’s almost time for the Kootenays to clock in for a night of ridiculous and wacky entertainment because Key City Theatre’s production of Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 is just around the corner! After a unique rehearsal period, the team is geared up and ready go, but with some unusual differences from previous shows.
In 9 to 5, the crew have worked extensively to ensure that they have a substantial understudy cast to make sure that they cover all their bases and that the show will have the same high quality regardless of any challenges that may come their way. The understudy cast has learned the same songs, dances and scenes as the rest of the crew. While you can expect to see the incredibly talented Jelena Jensen play the role of Doralee, the Texan born cowgirl, Emily Bohmer has been working hard to understudy the role and learn the character in a way that is both reminiscent and unique. Emily said “It is so much fun seeing how everyone plays each role so differently. Each cast member brings their own flavor to their part and I think the two casts really push each other!” she is excited to be a part of the show whether she’ll be pulling up her cowboy boots as Doralee or donning her slacks as the office gossip, Kathy.
Left, Matt Van Boeyen, Right Emily Bohmer
Bradley McCue, another member of the understudy cast, said that “Jumping between the two characters I play in both the regular cast and the understudy cast has given me a lot of practice in versatility. I make sure to diversify my two characters so that when I am portraying Dwayne (his usual role) it’s completely different from when I play Joe. (his understudy role)”
Left to Right: Amanda Casey, Sarah Turk, Bradley McCue, Jelena Jensen
The process that takes place is a tough one, with every scene being rehearsed back to back with both the foundation cast and the understudy cast. The work is rewarding and the fun during the rehearsals is effectively doubled. The understudy cast is hard at work, and it is clear that their efforts will not go unseen by the public eye. The understudy cast will have their own full show on Thursday January 20th, 2022 that will put their relentless efforts on display, so when you pick up your tickets it would be worth getting tickets to that show AND another night’s show because they’ll be completely unique and both totally tubular!
All Photos by Stephanie Moore
