25/08/2026
We can't quite believe we are writing this, but suddenly the curtain feels a little heavier ๐
We are heartbroken to hear of the passing of the incomparable Dolly Parton โ songwriter, storyteller, trailblazer, philanthropist and a woman whose extraordinary warmth, wit and spirit touched generations.
For us at Leek Theatre Company, this moment feels particularly poignant as we begin our journey towards staging 9 to 5: The Musical โ a show bursting with Dollyโs music, humour, heart and unmistakable belief in people finding the courage to stand tall, support one another and make a change.
We had imagined the months ahead as a celebration of her work. They still will be โ but now they will mean something more.
Every rehearsal, every harmony, every laugh and, eventually, every moment beneath the lights will carry a little extra love and gratitude for the remarkable woman who gave this story its voice.
Dolly showed the world that you could be glamorous and grounded, hilarious and wise, ambitious and generous โ and that kindness was never a weakness.
What a legacy. What a life. What a way to make a living. ๐
As we clock in on our own *9 to 5* journey, weโll be doing it with Dolly very firmly in our hearts.
โจ Thank you for the music, the laughter, the courage and the dreams, Dolly.
Rest in peace, Queen.
Weโll keep singing your songs ๐ถ ๐
โ Everyone at Leek Theatre Company