Audience members were heard gasping in shock at Dolly Parton’s “9 To 5: The Musical” opening night in the UK after they were told of the singer’s death just before showtime.
Given the time difference, the crowd seated at the Pavilion Theatre in Worthing, England, clearly had no idea that the legendary singer had died in Nashville, Tennessee, when they strapped in for the comedy show on August 25.
The audience was taken aback when they were told the sad news, with several fans letting out a collective, “Oh!”
Karla Tracey, who plays Parton’s character Doralee, made the announcement ahead of the scheduled show, appearing on stage to pay tribute to the singer.
“Good evening. 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,” Tracey said on stage in a moment captured by BBC News.
“9 to 5 was originally written and produced by Dolly, whose extraordinary talent, creativity and spirit are woven into every part of this work,” the actress added of the show, of which Parton starred alongside Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda in the original 1980 film before it was turned into a stage adaptation.
“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 around the world who loved and admired her,” 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.”
The video has now gone viral on social media with many users extending their sympathy to the actors and the crowd of fans who found out their idol had died just before showtime.
“Imagine finding out like this in the audience and all the performers carrying on with the show,” one commented on Instagram, as another wrote, “Wow, of all the ways to find out. I know that audience was sobbing the whole show.”
“Oh! I woulda needed an intermission asap,” wrote another, with one wondering, “Why would they announce it AT THE BEGINNING.”
It has since been revealed that Parton died on August 25 following a short battle with cancer.
“After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones,” her team said in a statement to Page Six.
The star was admitted to the Tennessee hospital on Thursday night, where she remained until she died on Tuesday morning.
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