Talent headlines SSTI’s summer kickoff with Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5

The Southeastern Summer Theatre Institute (SSTI) opens its 18th season this June with 9 to 5: The Musical, the high-energy stage adaptation of the classic 1980 film featuring music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and a book by Patricia Resnick.

The production, which celebrates friendship, resilience and fighting back with humor, will be directed and choreographed by Broadway veteran Jelani Remy. Known for roles in The Lion King, Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations, and Back to the Future, Remy makes his SSTI directorial debut after previously working with students on technique and audition coaching.

“We’re thrilled to have Jelani back with us in a new capacity this summer,” said SSTI founder Ben Wolfe. “His passion for storytelling and talent for connecting with our actors elevates the process on every level—and the joy he brings is contagious.”

Performances will take place at the Seahawk Cultural Center at Hilton Head Island High School, located at 26 School Road. Evening shows are scheduled for June 20th, 21st, 27th and 28th at 7:30 p.m. Matinee performances will be held on June 22nd and 29th at 1 p.m.

www.hhisummermusicals.com or by calling 866-749-2228.

SSTI, founded in 2008, is recognized as one of the country’s most immersive and challenging summer training programs for high school performers and theatre technicians. The institute earned seven 2023 BroadwayWorld awards and was recently named “Lowcountry’s Best Live Theatre” by The Island Packet for the second consecutive year.

With alumni performing on Broadway, national tours and at major universities, SSTI continues to shape the next generation of performing arts talent.

For more information about this season’s productions and training programs, visit www.summertheatreinstitute.com.