Published: 08:04 BST, 26 August 2026 | Updated: 10:15 BST, 26 August 2026
Audience members gasped as news of Dolly Parton's death was announced minutes before a performance of 9 To 5: The Musical.
It was announced on Tuesday the music icon had died at the age of 80 via an Instagram video posted by her nephew Bryan Seaver.
The news broke just as the cast of 9 To 5: The Musical, which is touring the UK after a hit West End run, were about to go on stage at the Pavilion Theatre in Worthing, West Sussex.
Actress Karla Tracey, who plays Dolly's character Doralee in the production, broke the news to the shocked audience on opening night.
'Before we begin tonight's performance of 9 To 5,' Tracey told the crowd, 'we would like to take a moment to remember the remarkable Dolly Parton, who has sadly passed away today.'
She continued after audible gasps around the theatre: '9 To 5 was originally written and produced by Dolly, whose extraordinary talent, creativity, and spirit are woven into every part of this work.
Audience members gasped as news of Dolly Parton's death was announced minutes before a UK performance of 9 To 5: The Musical on Tuesday night
The news broke just as the cast of 9 To 5: The Musical, which is touring the UK after a hit West End run, were about to go on stage at the Pavilion Theatre in Worthing, West Sussex
'Tonight, we will perform the piece as she intended with great respect and affection for the woman whose vision brought it to life.'
'As we begin, we dedicate tonight's performance to Dolly Parton, with our deepest thanks for the music, laughter and joy she gave us.'
Paul Jepson, Landmark Theatres chief executive and the musical's director, said in a statement: 'We would like to take a moment to remember the remarkable Dolly Parton.
'Our thoughts are with Dolly's family, friends and all those around the world who loved and admired her.
'It has been an honour for all of us to work on this show, originally written and produced by Dolly, whose extraordinary talent, creativity and spirit are woven into every part.'
Amber Davies also paid tribute to the icon after starring in the West End run of 9 To 5. Former Love Island star turned actress and singer Amber, 29, said that meeting her in preparation for her role in the 2019 show was 'a highlight of my lifetime'.
