‘9 To 5′ At Saratoga’s Home Made Theater – Molly McGrath As Doralee

Dolly Parton's '9 to 5: The Musical' was one of the best shows I've ever seen on Broadway.  If you're looking for a fun, inspirational story with music that will make you smile and sing along, this is it!

For those not lucky enough to see it during it's short run in New York City, you will now have a chance to enjoy the laughs at Saratoga's Home Made Theater October 12-18, 2012. We recently caught up with Molly McGrath, who plays the role of Doralee Rhodes, made popular by Dolly Parton in the original film.

What makes you a good Dolly?

I love country music. So needless to say, I’ve been addicted to Dolly Parton for years. I’d be willing to bet some of my friends would say we share that larger than life personality. I’ve played some great country girl parts onstage locally, and I’m generally pretty good at mimicking voices so I’ve worked really hard at getting a good interpretation of her that is an homage, not a caricature. Of course, I can’t compare to her in many ways, but we do share a ‘couple’ similar assets! J

What is your favorite song to perform in the show?

Dolly wrote all the music from this show, so it’s all great to perform. But I think ‘Backwoods Barbie’ is my favorite. I’m a country girl myself, I grew up on a farm, so that one hits home for me. The Act 2 song ‘Change It’ is pretty inspirational and fun as well.

Other than the music in 9 to 5, what is your favorite Dolly Parton Song?

Definitely 'Why’d You Come In Here Lookin’ Like That.' That is like everything a classic country song should be! It sounds so fun and upbeat, but it has a sort of sad undertone. I love how older country especially could sound so bouncy, but have a real life story behind it. I mean, who doesn’t have that ex that they know they shouldn’t be with, but they still swoon about a bit?

What scene do you think will get the biggest laugh?

There is a scene midway through act 1 where Mr. Harts uptight administrative assistant Roz unleashed a huge power ballad about how much she loves him. It’s hysterical. Dawn Oesch plays the role, and her comedic timing is impeccable.

How long have you been in theater and what has been our favorite role to date?

I’ve been working locally in theatre for 15 years. There are 2 roles that I’m most proud of so far,  both of them ironically enough are country legends. I preformed the role of Patsy Cline with the Local Actors Guild of Saratoga and that was amazing. Channeling her was difficult (her songs are very low, and her voice was so unique) but really fantastic, and I got to learn so much of her music. That was awesome. But I think my favorite role was playing Annie Oakley at Park Playhouse two summers ago. Talk about fun. I think that’s why I love the role of Doralee so much. She’s basically a glamorous version of Annie Oakley. What could be better than that?!

9 to 5 The Musical at Home Made Theater
October 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 & 27 - 8:00pm
October 21 & 28 - 2:00pm
Single Tickets $29/$26

Home Made Theater is in residence at the Spa Little Theater in the Saratoga Spa State Park. The theater is located close to The Gideon Putnam Hotel and Conference Center.