This year the Lodi High School Drama Club is putting on another fantastic musical. With all the picking and choosing, the directors Mr. Bernice, “Coach,”  and Ms. Gillenson made the decision on 9 To 5 the Musical.

In our discussion with Ms. Gillenson, she shared her thoughts on the upcoming show:

“This show marks the third in a row that was previously familiar to me due to the movie version. I hope familiarity with the 1980 Dolly Parton film will excite would-be audience members, because there’s nothing quite so exhilarating for our cast as a packed house! The show is fun, with many over-the-top and theater-magic moments, but at its heart is a story of three women who refuse to be oppressed, silenced, and underestimated. As a woman myself, I love nothing more than stories about strong, triumphant women. As a literary person, I always look for meaning in unexpected places. My Drama Club kids will entertain and engage the four audiences who attend the show, but we — and by “we” I mean the directorial staff of Louis Bernice, Dr. Macri, MaryAnn DiMaria, and yours truly — also seek to enrich and enliven the story with beautiful music and deeper meaning.”

This year the Drama Club is filled with talented, aspiring cast members. From the first read through, the cast both, new and returning members, have been off to a great start. Everyone is working really hard to put on a great show. The leads that were cast this year are:

Mayra Saint – Hilaire as Violet

Danielle Manzetti as Judy

Hannah Arp as Doralee

Osama Al Safarjalani as Hart

Justin Clancy as Dwayne

Jason Lambe as Joe

Felix Pagan as Mr. Tinsworthy

Driton Cadraku as Josh

Victor Bedoya as Dick

Danielle Devers as Roz

Gina Lisa as Margaret

Shirley Lizardo as Maria

Destiny Prado as Kathy

Zaurria Frias as Missy

As we say in drama — Break a leg!