“I’m on a women’s rights ride at the moment!” laughs Nicola Morrin, as we catch up during a break in rehearsals for 9 to 5 – the Musical. I’ve just played another very strong female character, Rita in Made in Dagenham, who led the fight for equal pay at the Ford car factory in the ‘60s. Now I’ve been cast as Violet, another hard working mum.”

“She’s a victim of office politics and teams up with her colleagues Judy and Doralee to teach the boss a lesson!”

The relationship between the three female characters is at the heart of 9 to 5.

“Violet takes a chance on Judy. She sees she’s very inexperienced in the workplace, so needs her strength and protection. But Judy teaches Violet a lesson too, not to be judgemental of Doralee, based on how she looks.”

“It’s clear we all need each other – and together we’re stronger.”

Events manager Nicola has performed with a range of amateur societies across Hampshire and Berkshire, notably Reading Operatic Society, but took a five year break when her own children came along. They’re now aged 7 and 10, and Nicola is enjoying her return to the stage in 9 to 5.

“It’s quite unusual for an amateur company to be allowed to perform a show while it’s still running in the West End, so this is a great opportunity for BATS!”

The powerhouse vocals of Nicola and her fellow performers bring Dolly Parton’s music to the stage in sensational style, including the classics 9 to 5, Backwoods Barbie and songs specially written for the musical.

So why pay West End prices when there’s talent like this on your doorstep?

See Nicola in 9 to 5 – The Dolly Parton Musical at the Haymarket, from 19 - 23 November. Buy tickets online.