Students at Cedar Creek High School in Egg Harbor City recently took the stage for the spring production of “9 to 5: The Musical,” a story about three women navigating workplace challenges while discovering their strength, confidence and independence.
Set in 1979 and featuring music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, the musical blends humor and upbeat songs while celebrating female empowerment and the support systems that help people reach their potential.
The Cedar Creek Theatre Department used the production as an opportunity to connect the show’s themes with community engagement, partnering with women-led businesses and organizations in the area.
Production photos were captured by local photographer Kristann Michael Photography, owned by Kristann Dolinsky. During a Saturday double performance, audience members could also purchase specialty coffee drinks from Kinder Sips, a small business owned by Gabrielle Kinder, an alumna of the Greater Egg Harbor Regional High School District. Several drinks were named after characters from the show.
The production also partnered with No1HungryinEHC, a woman-owned nonprofit food pantry that serves families in Egg Harbor City and surrounding communities. Through ticket sales, Cedar Creek Theatre donated $1,000 to support the organization’s work. The donation was delivered March 12 by the three students who played the show’s leading roles.
Nearly 2,000 audience members attended the musical over the course of the production weekend. The performances included four public shows and a special preview for Cedar Creek High School students, along with middle school students from Mullica Township and Port Republic.
Several Cedar Creek Theatre alumni also returned to make cameo appearances during the run, with a different former student appearing each night.
Organizers said productions like 9 to 5 demonstrate how school theatre programs can extend beyond the stage by supporting local businesses, highlighting community organizations and giving students opportunities to connect their creativity with real-world impact.
Photos by Kristann Michael Photo
