News Story
We're so sad to share the news that Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80 — and it feels only right to pause and remember her here, in the very week we're bringing her music to our stage.
Dolly passed away peacefully today, Tuesday 25 August 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee. Her family shared the news with the warmth she was loved for, calling her "a rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see" — and honestly, we can't think of a better line to describe her.
Few artists have given the world so much joy. Across seven decades, Dolly wrote her way from a one-room cabin in the Smoky Mountains to becoming one of the best-loved entertainers of all time — 11 Grammy Awards, a place in both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and songs like "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors" and "I Will Always Love You" that will be sung for generations to come.
And of course, closer to home this week: 9 to 5. Dolly's 1980 film with Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin gave the world one of the great working-women anthems, and it's the reason we get to fill the Pavilion with her music, her humour and her heart this week. There's something rather lovely about that timing — a chance to celebrate her the best way we know how, with a packed house singing along.
True to form, Dolly's family has asked that instead of flowers, well-wishers make a donation to her Imagination Library, the charity that has now given away over 300 million free books to children around the world. A typically generous final wish from a typically generous woman.
Rest in peace, Dolly. Thank you for the music, the laughter, and for reminding all of us to work 9 to 5 with a smile on. 💛
9 to 5 The Musical continues at the Pavilion Theatre this week — dedicated, this time round, to Dolly herself.
Paul Jepson, CEO and Creative Director of Landmark Theatres and Director of 9 to 5 The Musical“We would like to take a moment to remember the remarkable Dolly Parton. Our thoughts are with Dolly’s family, friends and all those around the world who loved and admired her. From all of us at Landmark Theatre’s and the cast and crew of 9 to 5 The Musical, our deepest thanks to you Dolly, for the music, laughter and joy you brought us all. 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”
