When the curtain rises on 9 to 5 The Musical at Baycourt later this month, audiences will see lead performer Mel Nicholson doing what she loves most - despite overcoming one of the biggest challenges of her life.

The Tauranga teacher and award-winning musical theatre performer has spent rehearsals recovering from Ramsay Hunt syndrome, which caused facial paralysis, vertigo and hearing and vision problems on her left side. Rehearsals have become part of her rehabilitation, helping rebuild her speech and facial movement after the illness.

“When I’ve been feeling the lowest, being able to go to rehearsals and literally pretend to be someone else has been integral to my emotional recovery,” Nicholson said.

Nicholson stars as Violet, the character famously played by Lily Tomlin in the hit 1980 film that inspired the musical.

Abbie Buskirk, Mel Nicholson and Tracey Bruce. Photo / Maxwell Hutton

Director Toni Henderson said the cast has rallied around Nicholson throughout her recovery.

“Knowing how committed Mel is to any project she works on, we have done our best to support her through her recovery,” Henderson said.

Nicholson said two women had been instrumental in her recovery - Urgent Care doctor Dr Zoë Cruse, who diagnosed the condition, and remedial therapist Elly Hunt of Powered by Prevention.

“It is because of Zoë and Elly that I have received the best medical and physical care to get my smile back.”

Henderson also thanked Tracey Braddock, who stepped into rehearsals and is covering the role if needed during the season.

“But knowing Mel, she will do everything possible to deliver each performance.”

Tracey Bruce and Mel Nicholson with cast in background. Photo / Maxwell Hutton

Nicholson previously starred in Legally Blonde, We Will Rock You, Disenchanted and Mary Poppins, and has won two Zony Awards for playing Carlotta in Phantom of the Opera.

Nicholson said performing with close friends Tracey Bruce and Abbie Buskirk made the on-stage chemistry effortless.

“The thing I know I’m going to look forward to every night is walking out there, hand in hand with my two best friends and taking our bow together.”

Nicholson said she was drawn to Violet because “there are so few musicals with women as such strong female leads.”

Presented by Tauranga’s Stage Right Theatre Trust, 9 to 5 The Musical runs at Baycourt Theatre from July 25 to August 1.

Featuring music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, the story follows three office workers who decide they’ve had enough of their sexist, overbearing boss and hatch a plan to turn the tables on him. While set in 1979, Henderson believes the show’s themes remain highly relevant.

“It has a strong female empowerment and teamwork theme, but I really think everyone will relate to someone in the office,” she said.

“There are some amazing solos that will make you laugh, cry and cheer, while the chorus numbers are full of fun and energy.”

Abbie Buskirk as Doralee with Tommy Shorter as Dwayne.

The production is also supporting Dress for Success Bay of Plenty, with theatregoers encouraged to donate women’s business clothing during the season or contribute when purchasing tickets.

The partnership was a natural fit, Henderson said.

"9 to 5 has a very clear female empowerment theme and we felt Dress for Success was an awesome match. They help women returning to the workforce who may lack confidence or the means to dress for an interview."

Beyond staging productions, Stage Right also develops local talent through practical NZQA-aligned training opportunities.

This year’s production includes a Tauranga Girls’ College student completing a formal placement in set painting before moving into a technical assistant role during the season, while an assistant choreographer is gaining practical experience alongside teacher training.

Mel Nicholson and Tracey Bruce with cast in background. Photo / Maxwell Hutton

Henderson said Stage Right also prides itself on building its own sets, costumes and props rather than relying on hired productions.

“Everything is designed and built specifically for us, which enables us to deliver the production the way we want to.”

Henderson hopes audiences, particularly those new to Stage Right, will be impressed by what community theatre can achieve.

“Expect to laugh, maybe even shed a tear, and when those first chords of the iconic 9 to 5 start to play, expect to be tapping your toes, clapping your hands and singing along,” Nicholson said.

Double pass giveaway!

The Weekend Sun has a double pass for opening night on July 25 to give away to one lucky reader who can tell where 9 to 5 The Musical is being performed.

To enter, visit www.sunlive.co.nz and click on the ‘competitions’ tab. Entries must be in by Tuesday, July 21.