9 to 5: Live audience reacts to Dolly Parton’s passing, cast member’s remember star’s ‘talent and spirit’

Theatre goers were left in shock in the UK, when a cast member of Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 The Musical announced the death of the country music legend on Tuesday night.

The beloved singer died at the age of 80, following a “brief battle with cancer”, her representatives confirmed on Wednesday .

Parton became one of country music’s most celebrated stars and Hollywood’s most recognisable faces during her decades-long career.

In her first major film role, Parton played alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin in the 1980 hit comedy 9 to 5, about three working women who team up to overthrow their sexist boss.

It became a box office hit with the title song, written by the country star, earning her an Oscar nomination and two Grammy Awards as well as becoming a celebrated anthem for office workers worldwide.

Actress Karla Tracey, who plays the same part Dolly played in the film, spoke on behalf of the cast and crew — paying tribute to the music icon before their performance at the Pavilion Theatre in the UK’s south.

“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,” Ms Tracey began.

She continued: “9 to 5 was originally written and produced by Dolly, whose extraordinary talent, creativity, and spirit are woven into every part of this work.”

Following the continued success of the film, it was Parton who teamed up with the movie’s co-screenwriter Patricia Resnick to take the movie took to the stage, with the musical making its Broadway debut in 2009.

After premiering in the US, the major revamped production opened in London’s West End in 2019, where it broke sales records and received wide acclaim.

The production has since gone on to tour major venues across the United States, United Kingdom and Australia, with the UK cast paying tribute to the iconic performer ahead of the night’s musical performance.

“Tonight, we will perform the piece as she intended, with great respect and affection for the woman whose vision brought it to life,” Ms Tracey continued.

“So, as we begin, we dedicate tonight’s performance to Dolly Parton with our deepest thanks for the music, laughter, and joy she gave us. Thank you, Dolly.”

Worthing Theatres and Museum, the group putting on the UK musical, also paid tribute to the star, stating: “Her spirit will be with us in every note and every laugh. Few artists have given the world so much joy, kindness and inspiration.“Our thoughts are with her family and the millions of fans she touched.”