Dolly Parton's highly anticipated musical, titled Dolly: A True Original Musical, is set to begin previews on December 7 at the St. James Theatre in New York City, ahead of its official opening on January 19, coinciding with Parton's 81st birthday.
The musical chronicles Parton's remarkable life and career, featuring a selection of her iconic songs such as I Will Always Love You, Jolene, Coat of Many Colors, and 9 to 5, along with new compositions she has crafted specifically for the show.
Dolly Parton’s Broadway Journey
This production marks Parton's return to Broadway, where she previously contributed to the Tony-nominated score for 9 to 5: The Musical, which ran in 2009. The upcoming musical has already made waves after its world premiere in Nashville in July 2025.
Parton co-wrote the book with Maria S. Schlatter, who also penned the holiday film Christmas on the Square featuring Parton. Bartlett Sher, known for his work on South Pacific, is directing the show.
Production Insights and Expectations
Producers Danny Nozell, Adam Speers, and Gavin Kalin are optimistic about the Broadway adaptation, stating, “After everything we learned during our world premiere in Nashville, we’re shaping the show and deepening the storytelling so that the Broadway production fully captures the spirit of this amazing woman.”
The show is expected to resonate with audiences, celebrating not just Parton's legacy but also her values of generosity and courage. Speers added, “To be opening the show on Dolly’s 81st birthday is not only a celebration of a milestone, but of a life shaped by generosity, courage, and purpose that, in this moment, feels not only uplifting and inspiring, but essential.”
Cast and Future Announcements
While casting details for the Broadway production are yet to be announced, the Nashville premiere featured talents such as Carrie St. Louis, Katie Rose Clarke, and Quinn Titcomb, who portrayed Parton at different stages of her life.
The musical will take over the St. James Theatre following the conclusion of Titanique, which is scheduled to end in September. Fans of Parton and musical theater alike are eager for this new chapter in her storied career.
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