The Enduring Relevance of “Working Girl”: How 1980s Power Dynamics Still Shape Modern Careers
Despite a 35-year gap, the story of Tess McGill – the ambitious secretary who navigates a male-dominated world in the film Working Girl – resonates with startling clarity today. A recent stage adaptation, featuring music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper, isn’t just a nostalgic trip; it’s a stark reminder that the fight for equal opportunity in the workplace is far from over. In fact, a 2023 study by McKinsey & Company revealed that women continue to be significantly underrepresented in leadership positions, highlighting a persistent gap that echoes the challenges faced by Tess McGill in 1988.
Beyond Nostalgia: Why the ‘80s Setting Matters
The creative team behind the new musical deliberately chose to retain the 1980s setting. Director Christopher Ashley explained that the central premise – a secretary impersonating her boss – would be far more difficult to execute in today’s hyper-connected world. But the decision goes deeper than logistical convenience. The era of power suits and unapologetic ambition, while often criticized for its excesses, provides a unique lens through which to examine contemporary workplace dynamics. As playwright Theresa Rebeck notes, the “unwokeness” of the Reagan era, while problematic, offers a darkly comedic backdrop for exploring the subtle (and not-so-subtle) biases that still permeate professional environments.
The Glass Ceiling Remains: A Modern-Day Reality
Cyndi Lauper herself underscored the continued relevance of the story, particularly in light of recent setbacks for women’s rights. The rollback of Roe v. Wade, she argues, has exacerbated existing inequalities and created a more precarious landscape for women in all aspects of life, including their careers. This isn’t simply about equal pay (though that remains a critical issue). It’s about access to opportunities, the ability to be taken seriously, and the freedom from harassment and discrimination. The concept of the glass ceiling, first coined in the 1980s, remains a potent metaphor for the invisible barriers that continue to hinder women’s advancement.
The Evolution of Workplace “Cons” in the Digital Age
While impersonating a boss might be harder in the age of LinkedIn and instant communication, the spirit of strategic maneuvering persists. Today’s “cons” take different forms: carefully curated online personas, networking events designed to create advantageous connections, and the subtle art of self-promotion. The core principle – presenting oneself in a way that maximizes opportunities – remains constant. However, the ethical implications of these strategies are increasingly scrutinized, particularly in the context of social media and the pressure to maintain a flawless online image.
From “Kinky Boots” to “Working Girl”: Lauper’s Evolving Voice
Lauper’s transition from pop icon to Tony-winning composer demonstrates a remarkable ability to connect with audiences on a deeper emotional level. Her work on Kinky Boots taught her to “write in other people’s voices,” a skill she’s now applying to the characters in Working Girl. This ability to empathize and authentically portray diverse perspectives is crucial for creating compelling and resonant musical theatre. It also speaks to a broader trend in the arts: a growing demand for stories that reflect the complexities of the human experience and challenge conventional narratives.
The Future of Workplace Narratives in Musical Theatre
The success of Working Girl could pave the way for more stage adaptations of classic films that explore themes of gender, power, and ambition. We might see revivals of films like 9 to 5 or Baby Boom, reimagined for a contemporary audience. More importantly, it could inspire original musicals that tackle the challenges faced by today’s workforce, including the rise of remote work, the gig economy, and the increasing pressure to achieve work-life balance. The demand for stories that reflect these realities is only going to grow.
The enduring appeal of Working Girl lies in its timeless message: ambition, resilience, and the courage to challenge the status quo. As workplaces continue to evolve, the lessons learned from Tess McGill’s journey remain as relevant as ever. What strategies are you employing to navigate the complexities of your own career? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
