9 to 5 The Musical: Cast Interviews with Hannah Countermine and Sophia Vessecchia

Freshman Music Theatre major Hannah Countermine and junior Music Theatre major Sophia Vessecchia star as Judy Bernly and Violet Newstead in UB Theatre and Dance’s new production of 9 to 5 The Musical, running April 26 – May 5, 2024 at the Center for the Arts. Hannah and Sophia tell us a little bit about what audiences can expect during the two-weekend run.

Hannah Countermine Interview:

What’s Judy’s primary challenge in the story? How do you shift gears emotionally to portray how she changes throughout?

Judy's primary challenge in the show is finding her own independence. At the top of the show, she is dumped by her husband and is forced to get a job at Consolidated. Through this job, she learns how to make a living on her own. Violet and Doralee take Judy their wing and help her become a strong, fierce, and independent woman.

On the day of a show what do you like to do, or not do, in the hours before curtain? What’s your way of preparing?

On a show day, I prepare in many different ways. My first priority is warming up my voice and body by drinking lots of water, stretching, using a vocal steamer, and doing some vocal warmups. I also have to prepare mentally by clearing my mind with some meditation. While I do my hair and makeup, I love to listen to empowering female music such as Britney Spears, Beyoncé, and of course Dolly Parton!

Have you ever had a role like Judy before? What’s been the most challenging aspect? What have you tried to do to make it ‘yours?’

I have never played a role like Judy before, but she has been a dream role of mine for quite a long time. I relate to Judy in many ways, from her vibrant personality to her sense of independence. This role gave me a chance to work on my comedic timing and versatility throughout the show. I absolutely loved working on this show and wouldn't have been able to make the progress I have made with Judy without all of the support from the cast and crew.

Sophia Vessecchia Interview:

What’s been your favorite part of the rehearsal process and preparing to play the role of Violet?

When preparing for the role of Violet, I actually interviewed my Aunt! (Hi Aunt Sue!). To me, she is very similar to Violet: a hard-working, strong woman. She was able to tell me stories from her experience in the workplace, which was very helpful in preparing for the role. This role is dedicated to her and it really is such a honor to portray the role of Violet. My favorite part of the rehearsal process is being able to work with my friends everyday. Being able to work close with Kyra and Hannah is such a joy and I learn so much from them each day!

Have you ever had a role like Violet before? What’s been the most challenging aspect for you personally?

I have never had a role like Violet before, and it has been such an amazing experience! The most challenging aspect for me is all the singing! I just counted and Violet alone has 10 songs! It can be vocally exhausting, but it really is a great challenge for me to work more on my technique and maintain good vocal health.