Meet the Stars of Dolly Parton's ‘9 to 5’ at the Peacock

(Photo by Pam Roman)

Foreground: Deborah Meigs, Ashley Eller. On bed: Natalie Schaible, Michael Lindsay, Karl Snow Rear: David Heyer, Ryleigh Elver, Dakotah Waldroop, Ed Legue, Ashley Elver, Carli LeJeune, Hope Ledford, Dylan Mason, Jordan Legue, Leta Reeves (Not pictured: Monya Seibert, Teresa Lemaire, Carrie Davis)

By Harrison Keely

Guest Writer

Before audiences cheer for the heroes—or boo the boss—they'll meet an unforgettable cast of characters. The upcoming production of 9 to 5: The Musical at Hayesville’s Peacock Performing Arts Center features local actors bringing memorable personality to Dolly Parton's hilarious workplace comedy.

Based on the beloved hit movie, 9 to 5 follows three very different women who join forces after growing tired of being overlooked and mistreated by their egotistical boss. What begins as a workplace fantasy turns into a hilarious adventure filled with friendship, confidence, and standing up for what's right.

Leading the charge is Young Harris resident Ashley Eller as determined office veteran Violet Newstead. Elver says stepping into the shoes of the confident supervisor has challenged her to portray someone far tougher than she is in real life. "The three leading ladies do not start out as friends, or even friendly," Elver says. "Each character has so much personal growth throughout the show."

Playing timid newcomer Judy Bernly is Rome, Georgia, resident Carli LeJeune, who previously directed a high school production of 9 to 5 before finally stepping into one of its starring roles. LeJeune says Judy's gradual transformation from insecure divorcee to confident professional is one audiences will enjoy seeing. Her husband Cameron serves as the show's musical director.

Murphy's Hope Ledford portrays the unforgettable Doralee Rhodes, the kindhearted secretary whose appearance often causes others to underestimate her. A lifelong Dolly Parton admirer, Ledford says taking on one of Parton's signature roles is both exciting and intimidating. "I couldn't ask for a better show to be a part of," Ledford says. "This show will stick with audiences long after they see it."

No workplace comedy is complete without a villain, and Hiawassee's Ashley Eller embraces every moment as the thoroughly despicable Franklin Hart Jr. Fresh off his starring role in It Runs in the Family, Eller says he watched part of the movie the night before auditions. "I'm used to playing the charming guy," he says. "If I play a villain, it's usually a likable villain. This time folks are going to hate me either way, so I'm going all in!"

The supporting cast adds even more personality to the office. Brasstown's Karl Snow plays Joe, Violet's patient admirer, and says the music gives him plenty to tackle. "Dolly did not write it easy on the men!" he laughs.

Warne's Deborah Meigs appears as Hart's devoted assistant Roz, while Hayesville's Monya Seibert portrays office lush Margaret. Hiawassee's Dylan Mason plays Violet's son Josh, Young Harris' Lincoln Carpenter portrays Bob Enright, Young Harris' Ryleigh Elver plays outspoken employee Maria, and Hayesville’s Natalie Schaible appears as Hart's unsuspecting wife, Missy.

Also appearing are Michael Lindsey as Dwayne, Jordan Legue as Dick, Leta Reeves as Kathy, Ed Legue as Tinsworthy, David Heyer as the Detective, Abiagael Shields as the Candy Striper, Dakotah Waldroop as the Doctor, and ensemble members Carrie Davis and Teresa LeMaire.

9 to 5 runs August 7-9 and 14-16 at the Peacock Performing Arts Center, 301 Church St., Hayesville. Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 2:30 p.m. For information, call 828-389-2787 or visit thepeacocknc.org.