Dolly Parton's 9 to 5 is Getting "Laid Off"

Dolly Parton's 9 To 5 musical is to close on Broadway after a disappointing run in New York.

The show was a hit when it launched in Los Angeles earlier this year, but the success failed to materialise in the Big Apple and now producers have announced the show will close, after 148 performances, on 6 September.

The musical, based on Parton's 1980 film, will begin a national tour in Nashville, Tennessee three weeks later.

Parton insists the show has been a big hit for her: "I couldn't have asked for a better experience on my first Broadway show. I've had the privilege of working with an amazing group of people who have become like family to me. I can't wait for this show to hit the road so people across the country can see why I'm so proud of everyone involved."

9 To 5: The Musical was nominated for four 2009 Tony Awards, including Best Original Score, Best Actress in a Musical (Allison Janney), Best Featured Actor in a Musical (Marc Kudisch), and Best Choreography. Janney also received a 2009 Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actress in a Musical and the production received a record-breaking 15 Drama Desk nominations, including Outstanding Musical, Outstanding Actress in a Musical and Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical (Marc Kudisch).

Dolly Parton Brushes Off Lesbian Rumors

Country legend Dolly Parton has shaken off rumors she may be gay.

The star has been romantically linked with friend Judy Ogle before but told AARP magazine: "We're absolutely, totally honest, open, and comfortable with each other.

"We've been accused of being lovers. We do love each other, but we've never been like that."

Earlier this month, she told Larry King: "I am not gay. I have been accused of that.

"But I have been happily married for 42 years to the same man. And he's not the least bit, you know, threatened by the fact that I may be gay."

Parton, 63, has been married to husband Carl Dean since 1966.

In 2006, she said she had received hate mail due to her status as a gay icon.

"Having a big gay following, I get hate mail and threats," she said.

She added, "Some people are blind or ignorant, and you can't be that prejudiced and hateful and go through this world and still be happy. It's all right to be who you are."