Young entertainers' 'pride and purpose' in honouring Dolly Parton
'9-5 The Musical' already holds a “special meaning” for many cast members
Young entertainers whose “childhoods were shaped” by the literacy legacy of Dolly Parton's book scheme in Rotherham are looking ahead to performing their own “poignant” production of 9 to 5 The Musical following the global superstar's death.
Rehearsals have been underway since April for Wickersley Youngstars upcoming production of 9 to 5 The Musical, opening at Rotherham Civic this October.
Tributes poured in from across the globe following country music superstar Dolly's death aged 80 last week, with many Advertiser readers thanking the singer, songwriter, actor, and philanthropist for jetting into Rotherham to launch her international children’s book scheme in the UK back in 2007.
Marie Hadfield from Wickersley Youngstars Committee, said: “The show 9-5 already held special meaning for many of our cast, as a large number of our young performers grew up receiving books through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
“Her literacy work shaped their childhoods long before they ever stepped onto a stage.“With Dolly’s recent passing, the production has taken on an added poignancy. Not only did she star in the original 1980 film, but she also wrote the iconic score for the stage musical, including the title number that has inspired generations.
“Our young performers feel an even stronger sense of pride and purpose in honouring her creative legacy through the show they’ve been working so hard on for months.
“To support the production, our committee and production team recently took a group of cast members to see the touring production of 9 to 5 The Musical at Bridlington Spa.
“The trip provided valuable inspiration, and the young performers were also lucky enough to meet the professional cast afterwards for a Q&A session and photographs, making the experience even more memorable.”