Spectators at a venue in Sussex were left stunned when word spread that Dolly Parton had passed away prior to a British production of 9 To 5: The Musical.
The renowned country performer died at the age of 80 in a Nashville medical facility after what representatives described as a short illness, with the announcement coming on Tuesday.
Parton appeared alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin in the 1980 movie version of 9 To 5 and subsequently supplied both the music and lyrics for the theatrical rendition.
Karla Tracey, who portrays the Doralee character originally created for Parton, delivered the somber news to theatregoers at the Pavilion Theatre in Worthing before honouring the legendary singer.
According to Tracey, the troupe intended to stage the production with the same reverence and admiration the singer deserved, as she was the creative force behind its existence. She noted that the evening’s performance would be dedicated to Parton, expressing gratitude for the entertainment and happiness she provided throughout her career.
Parton earned widespread recognition for her influential songs such as 9 To 5, I Will Always Love You, and Jolene.
Paul Jepson, who serves as both chief executive of Landmark Theatres and the musical’s director, offered his own reflections on the situation. He asked the audience to pause and commemorate the extraordinary Dolly Parton, extending sympathies to her loved ones and admirers worldwide. He described it as a privilege for everyone involved to bring to the stage a work originally conceived and produced by Parton, whose remarkable abilities and passion permeate every aspect of the show.
A biographical production titled Dolly: A True Original Musical is scheduled to commence previews on Broadway later this year, with its official premiere set for January 2027, which would have coincided with Parton’s 81st birthday. The musical represented a deeply personal undertaking during the closing years of her life.
Last month, Parton issued a statement declaring that her entire existence had been a musical, essentially an elaborate opera, and she eagerly anticipated sharing it with Broadway audiences. She expressed hope that viewers would derive as much pleasure from witnessing it as she had from experiencing it.