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The death of Dolly Parton has been a heartbreaking announcement for fans worldwide, especially for the audience at 9 to 5 The Musical.
A gasp rang out at Worthing Theatre in Sussex as a cast member walked on stage ahead of the evening’s show to announce the country legend had died.
Parton, whose career spanned more than six decades, died on August 25 aged 80, after a ‘brief cancer battle’.
Tributes have been shared by celebrities and fans alike, with everyone from Sir Elton John to Sarah Jessica Parker mourning the Jolene icon.
‘Before we begin tonight’s performance of 9 to 5, we would like to remember the remarkable Dolly Parton who has sadly passed away today,’ the performer announced to the crowd.
As the crowd settled down from their shock, Doralee actress Karla Tracey went on to praise Parton’s ‘extraordinary talent, creativity, and spirit’.
9 to 5 The Musical is based on the 1980 film of the same name, which Parton starred in, with music and lyrics written by the singer.
It opened in 2008 before moving to Broadway a year later and landing four Tony Award nominations. By 2010, the show was on a national tour and two years later it opened in the UK.
9 to 5 The Musical ran on the West End in 2019, starring Amber Davies and Bonnie Langford before four UK tours, as well as runs in Australia and Japan.
‘Tonight we will perform the piece as she intended, with great respect and affection for the woman whose vision brought it to life,’ Karla continued.
She sent the production’s well wishes to Parton’s family and dedicated the performance to the late singer with ‘deepest thanks for the music, laughter, and joy she gave us’.
Last night’s show was actually the opening performance of the musical at the Worthing Theatre, with shows running until the end of August.
On September 1, the show will move to Coventry and then Hastings, wrapping up by mid-month.
In the caption of the video, the theatre wrote: ‘We’re so sad to hear of the passing of Dolly Parton.
