THE cast of the 9 to 5 Musical announced Dolly Parton’s passing to the audience before the show kicked off.

On Tuesday night, it was revealed to the world that icon had died at the age of 80 following a brief cancer battle.

A person in a pink outfit on stage announcing Dolly Parton's death before a musical.The 9 to 5 Musical paid tribute to Dolly Parton on stage last night Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk A woman in a pink dress on stage addresses an audience at the 9 to 5 The Musical.They announced her death to the audience, with some of the attendees likely to have been unaware of Dolly’s passing at the time Credit: Landmark Theatres

A dedication was made by Karla Tracey on behalf of the cast of musical 9 to 5 ahead of their performance at Worthing Theatre and Museum.

Gasps could be heard as the Irish actor informed the audience of Dolly’s death, with everyone seemingly taken aback by the shocking news.

Speaking to the audience sat before her, Karla said: “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.

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

NINTCHDBPICT001103459918The 9 to 5 Musical is currently touring around the UK Credit: Alamy Photo of Dolly PARTONDolly died at the age of 80 following a brief battle with cancer Credit: Getty

“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.

“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.”

Landmark Theatres, who are currently touring her show 9 to 5 The Musical, also released a statement in the wake of her passing.

Paul Jepson, the director of the 9 to 5 The Musical said: “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.

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“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.”

The devastating news of Dolly’s death was first announced on social media by her nephew Bryan Seaver, who said she was “in the arms of Jesus”.

According to TMZ , Dolly was admitted to a Nashville hospital on Friday morning suffering from kidney and autoimmune problems.

It was later revealed she had a brief battle with cancer.

She had been before her death.

Dolly spoke with People just last week admitting she had recently been through “hard times” with her health.

“I am dealing with some health issues that I just didn’t pay attention to when I was watching over Carl.”

Since the news broke, .