08/27/2026
PLEASE READ: 9 to 5 is a musical based on the 1980 film of the same name, with music and lyrics written entirely by Dolly. The show is a highly feminist, beautiful work that comments on how women are treated in the world in contrast to their ability to make amazing, vital change. In our interpretation, we prioritize analyzing and properly representing her intended message the best we can.
Thus, in the song “One of the Boys”, which the character Violet sings about finally getting what she deserves in spite of the men above her keeping her down, we decided to pay tribute to the women who deal with the same thing every day of their lives.
Women’s sports are continuously underfunded, undervalued, and underestimated. Female athletes are paid less than their male counterparts for the exact same level of performance, and the sexist idea that “no one watches women sports anyway” leads them to not even being as appreciated by the public. Plus, despite the continued ideology that women need to be stronger and “man up”, female athletes are ridiculed for the muscular tone and assertive behavior that often comes with strength in sport. Somehow, there is no winning in a female industry that brings in wins every single day
We had each student pick an athlete whose struggles they related to in some way, shape, or form. Some chose women they felt represented their culture, others chose women who advocate for their insecurities, and so much more. Each girl feels confident and proud to portray a woman whose strength and perseverance inspires little girls all across the world.
Dolly will forever leave a legacy of hope, a legacy that shows women around the world that no matter what life throws at them (and trust, it will throw hard), they too can achieve whatever their dreams may be.
Watch the whole vlog on YouTube and come see 9 to 5, which will be in loving memory of Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean 💗🦋
Serena Williams SIMONE BILES Ilona Maher Dolly Parton
