9 to 5: The Musical fans gasp as actress announces Dolly Parton death

Theatregoers at 9 to 5: The Musical gasped as they heard about Dolly Parton's death.
Punters gathered at Sussex's Worthing Theatre on Tuesday (25.08.26) evening were devastated as they were informed she had died aged 80, with the news being confirmed shortly before the opening performance got underway.
Doralee actress Karla Tracey told the crowd: "Before we begin tonight’s performance of 9 to 5, we would like to remember the remarkable Dolly Parton, who has sadly passed away today."
The audience sounded shocked by the sudden announcement, as the performer went onto pay tribute to the late star, whose hit song inspired the musical.
She said: "9 to 5 was 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.
"Our thoughts are with Dolly's family, friends, and all those who around the world who loved and admired her."
Karla concluded her speech by dedicating the performance to Dolly.
She added: "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."
The audience and band on stage were seen applauding, as Karla introduced the show.
The Worthing Theatre shared the video on its official account, writing that the team is "so sad to hear of the passing" of Dolly.
They continued: "As we bring 9 to 5 The Musical to the stage this week, 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."
Theatregoers commented under the video with their own tributes.
One fan wrote: "‘I was at the show tonight. It was a shock, finding that out just before the show and so so sad.
"What a wonderful way it was to celebrate her life and some of her work.
"Huge kudos and love to the cast and crew for still absolutely smashing their performances."
9 to 5: The Musical is based on the 1980 film of the same name, with music and lyrics written by Dolly herself.
The production first opened in 2008 and moved to Broadway the following year, going on to earn four Tony Award nominations.
By 2010, the musical was touring the US, before opening in the UK in 2012, running on the West End in 2019 with Amber Davies and Bonnie Langford in the cast.
Since then, there have been four UK tours, plus productions across the globe in Australia and Japan.
Dolly's death was confirmed in a video from her nephew Bryan Seaver, which he shared on her Instagram and X account.
He said: “My name is Bryan Seaver, son of Cassie Parton, and I’m representing the Parton and Owens family today announcing the passing of my aunt, Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean, Sister, Sis and Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next.
“This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I fully absorbed it as a future reality.
“As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it until now.
“It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly. Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl, her parents and countless others who have watched her and longed to meet her in the heavens.”
Dolly's rep later revealed the singer died after "bravely facing a brief battle with cancer".