Audience members at a performance of "9 to 5: The Musical" in Worthing, West Sussex, reacted with audible gasps Tuesday evening when a cast member announced the death of icon Dolly Parton.
Actress Karla Tracey, who portrays Parton's character Doralee in the production, informed the crowd just before the show was set to begin. "Before we begin tonight's performance of 9 to 5," Tracey said, "we would like to take a moment to remember the remarkable Dolly Parton, who has sadly passed away today."
She continued, acknowledging the audience's reaction, "9 to 5 was originally written and produced by Dolly, whose extraordinary talent, creativity, and spirit are woven into every part of this work. 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."
Parton died at the age of 80. Her death was confirmed in an Instagram video posted by her nephew, Bryan Seaver. The news came as the cast of the musical, which is touring the UK following a West End run, prepared to take the stage at the Pavilion Theatre.
Paul Jepson, Landmark Theatres chief executive and the musical's director, released a statement expressing condolences. "Our thoughts are with Dolly's family, friends and all those around the world who loved and admired her," Jepson stated. "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, who starred as Judy Bernly in the West End production, paid tribute to Parton, calling her the "highlight of my lifetime" after meeting her in preparation for the 2019 show. "The world will not be the same without you. From the entire world, Thank you @dollyparton," Davies wrote on social media.
"9 to 5: The Musical" is based on the 1980 film of the same name, which starred Parton alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. Parton also earned an Academy Award nomination for her theme song for the movie.
Despite her passing, Parton's Broadway aspirations for "Dolly: A True Original Musical" are set to continue, with previews scheduled to begin in New York in December. The show is slated to officially open on January 19, which would have been her 81st birthday. The musical, which ran in Nashville last summer, features new songs written by Parton alongside her popular hits. She described the project in a video last month as a dream come true, taking audiences through her life from her beginnings in the Smoky Mountains to her Hollywood career.