Audience members at a performance of '9 to 5: The Musical' in Worthing, England, gasped as the cast announced the death of Dolly Parton on Tuesday. The news was shared by actress Karla Tracey, who plays Parton’s character Doralee in the production, just before the show began at the Pavilion Theatre.
Tracey informed the crowd: 'Before we begin tonight's performance of 9 to 5, we would like to take a moment to remember the remarkable Dolly Parton, who has sadly passed away today.' She added that the cast would perform 'as she intended, with great respect and affection for the woman whose vision brought it to life.' The performance was dedicated to Parton, with the cast expressing gratitude for her contributions to music and joy.
The Pavilion Theatre, which manages the venue, also paid tribute in a statement, calling Parton 'among few artists who have given the world so much joy.' Her death at age 80 was confirmed by her team after a brief battle with cancer.
Parton, a country music icon, rose to fame with hits like 'Jolene' and 'I Will Always Love You,' and later became known for her philanthropy, including her work with the Imagination Library and donations to COVID-19 vaccine research. She also starred in the 1980 film '9 to 5,' which inspired the musical adaptation.
Actress Amber Davies, who played Judy Bernly in the West End production of '9 to 5: The Musical,' shared a tribute on social media, calling her meeting with Parton 'a highlight of my lifetime.' Davies wrote: 'Dolly, you gave me my first YES. One of the very first to believe in me. This will always be a highlight of my lifetime.'
Parton’s death was confirmed via an Instagram video posted by her nephew Bryan Seaver, who stated the announcement was something she had requested years prior. She was hospitalized in Nashville on Friday with autoimmune and kidney issues before passing on Tuesday morning.
The Pavilion Theatre confirmed that '9 to 5: The Musical' would continue its run through Friday as scheduled.