From the moment I step into the small recording room, the energy is palpable. The three stars of the LBHS 2025 Spring Musical, 9 to 5, radiate an infectious enthusiasm that fills the space. 

Maris Morgan (senior), Lauren Norrix (senior), and Lila Tacklind (sophomore) are the perfect trio. They recall their journeys from young children participating in community theater and dance to reaching the “top of the [first] level” in their careers as leads in their high school musical. All three girls’ specific roles in this musical hold deep personal significance — even if they couldn’t initially recognize it.

Lila Tacklind explains her original struggle to connect with her character, Violet Newstead. While her character exudes a cold personality in the workplace, Tacklind’s skilled character analysis helped her identify Violet’s profound emotional nature. “She’s actually a really emotional character… but she had that part of her shut down so she could function in the workplace.” While Violet’s strong brick walls crumble throughout the musical, Tacklind recalls similarly getting to know her character on a deeper level over time and eventually finding ways to connect.

When Maris Morgan originally heard of the characters in 9 to 5, she immediately thought Doralee Rhodes was likely “the comedic blonde [she’d] be typecast as.” After landing the role, Morgan didn’t expect to connect with Doralee so deeply. She realized that Doralee was not the stereotypical blonde but rather a woman who defies expectations and steps outside the archetype set by society. Morgan now looks forward to every rehearsal where she gets to be the conduit for Doralee’s impactful story. As Doralee Rhodes, Morgan sees her years of training come to life in her first real leading role.

Unlike her costars, Lauren Norrix knew she resonated with her character, Judy Bernly, from the first rehearsal. Similar to Judy’s struggle to find her voice in a misogynistic environment, Norrix struggled to find her voice when she first moved to LBHS in her sophomore year. Norrix appreciates the ability to draw on past experiences to connect with her character. “It’s really inspiring to see [Judy] go from this quiet, nervous woman to this strong, independent woman… who can do things herself that she didn’t think she could.” When reflecting on the most challenging aspect of playing her character, Norrix explains how it’s more challenging to play someone similar to herself because she doesn’t want to get too invested and affected as her character gets affected in the show. Yet, she recognizes the beauty of reflecting on her past while sending a universally important message to the audience.

Their chemistry is undeniable, and it’s clear this trio is at the heart of what promises to be an unforgettable production of 9 to 5. When asked why they’re excited for people to see the show, the three stars compliment one another’s talent and praise their director, Ms. Minguez-Marshall, as well as her cast. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen a show where kids were as focused on learning it,” says Tacklind. They emphasize how everyone in the cast loves the show, the choreography, and the music. This dedication and genuine desire to go to rehearsal five times a week for three hours will undoubtedly lead to a riveting production.

Morgan, Norrix, and Tacklind hope the show will inspire their audiences and leave people saying, “I want to see that again.” 9 to 5 is truly a timeless piece that opens people’s eyes to the very real realities of women’s experiences with misogyny. Rooted in messages of female empowerment, the show highlights women fighting against oppression to have their voices heard. Exemplifying theater’s role as a form of social commentary, 9 to 5 highlights how far society has come since 30 years ago, how much work is still needed, and what women are fighting to protect.

Come see these three shine on stage along with their talented cast and crew in 9 to 5 March 7-9 and 14-16, Friday and Saturdays at 7pm and Sundays at 2pm. You can purchase your tickets on Go Fan starting February 14th via this link: https://gofan.co/app/school/CA7969?activity=Performing%20Arts