Janna Idzerda and Nelia Peterson Shine in “9 to 5”
Female-Driven Theatre and Why It Matters
In 9 to 5, women support women. Janna Idzerda and Nelia Peterson, who share the role of Doralee, embody that idea fully. Double-cast alongside Violet, Judy, and Franklin, the two performers bring their own interpretation to the iconic character while supporting each other throughout the rehearsal and performance process.
For Janna, the appeal of 9 to 5 is clear,
“I love the opportunity to be in shows that are female-driven. There are so many shows that lead with men and that’s great, but opportunities for women are rare and having a show about such a bond that happens between women and supporting each other is so important.”
Nelia echoes that sentiment, with an eye toward her family, “For me, theatre is a chance to show my kids that no matter where you are in life, you can always do something that you love. And doing 9 to 5 shows them that women deserve things just as much as men do… It helps me show them how they should see the world.”
Both women also connect with Doralee’s blend of confidence and resilience. Janna admires how the character navigates challenges with quiet strength. “She is very confident in her space, and she just does her thing, keeps going every day despite the demeaning qualities that come from her boss,” Janna says. “When the women get the opportunity, they change the office for the better, and that’s such a cool moment in the show.”
For Nelia, Doralee’s strength resonates on a deeply personal level.
“Having spent six years in the Army, I have been on the receiving end where those outranking you see that you’re a woman, feel you are less than them, and they use that power against you…I look at Doralee, she’s just who she is and is unashamed of who she is… I see her step it up and change the way that they look at her, finally taking back her voice and not letting it get to her anymore.”
Through the shared role and the story of 9 to 5, Janna and Nelia embody the same resilience, strength, and camaraderie that Doralee represents which is a testament to the power of women supporting women, both on and off the stage.
The Power of Double Casting
In this production, some roles are double cast meaning two performers share the same character and alternate performances throughout the run. For Nelia and Janna, this approach brings more than just the challenge of stepping into the same shoes; it also offers coverage, support, and peace of mind. Knowing they can rely on each other allows them to take creative risks, grow in the role, and navigate the demands of live performance.
For them, the heart of the experience lies in collaboration.
“It’s like having the biggest cheerleader in the room,” Nelia says. “She knows the character just as well as I do, and if I’m struggling with something, she’s the first person I come to. The production team has also been so good about making sure we all have the time we need.”
Janna agrees, noting the trust that’s formed between them. “It’s not without its challenges,” she admits, “but after we do a run, we can come back to each other and say, ‘Wait, okay, did I do that right?’ We give each other confidence that we wouldn’t necessarily have doing the role by ourselves.”
The process has even led to unexpected personal growth. Nelia laughs as she recalls early rehearsals: “I started off going, ‘I don’t know how to be sexy.’ Oh good, Janna—show me how to be a little more confident!”
Beyond the artistic benefits, double casting also provides a practical sense of security. “I’ve done shows where I was sick the night before with no understudy—it’s terrifying,” Nelia says. “Now, if I’m getting a little squeaky, I know I have this night off to recuperate. And if something unexpected happens, I know she’s there and she knows the role.”
Janna agrees, pointing to the flexibility it brings during rehearsals. “We’ve already had people out sick or juggling schedules,” she says. “So we’ve worked through different combinations of characters, and it’s actually been really comforting. You know someone always has your back.”
Beyond the role itself, 9 to 5 carries a broader message. Janna reflects,
“I think the show gives me a sense of hope… They really show up and support each other, and that’s what we’re all going to do: support each other, make some music, and move forward.”
In 9 to 5, support, self-assurance, and female empowerment aren’t just themes, they’re lived every night by Doralee herself. Janna and Nelia don’t just play the same role; they lift each other up, share the burden, and embody the strength of women standing together.
Turning to Janna, Nelia says, “I am extremely glad that you are my double-cast. I could not have imagined taking this journey with anybody else because you have turned me into a different person in this time frame.”
Janna responds, “Getting to see you grow into this role is so exciting… You’ve been such a supportive human in this community…and together, we’re showing what happens when women truly support women.”
From navigating challenges and mastering the character, to offering reassurance and building confidence, their partnership is a living example of the show’s message.
Don’t hit snooze on this one!
Inspired by Dolly Parton’s iconic songs and wit, 9 to 5 the Musical brings empowerment, laughs, and show-stopping numbers to the stage! Set in the late 1970s, 9 to 5 follows three underestimated coworkers—a savvy office manager, a newly divorced newcomer, and a misunderstood secretary—as they plot to upend corporate culture and create a workplace that works for everyone. With big laughs, bold fashion, and even bolder moves, this story is a hilarious and heartfelt celebration of friendship, justice, and pushing back against the status quo.
GREAT’s production of 9 to 5 is on stage at the Paramount Center for the Arts Oct 17 – Nov 2. Don’t miss it—tickets are moving fast!
