Country music legend Dolly Parton is bringing the story of her remarkable life to Broadway, with Dolly: A True Original Musical officially scheduled to begin previews later this year before opening on one of the most significant dates in her life.
Producers have announced that the highly anticipated production will begin preview performances at Broadway's St. James Theatre on December 7, 2026, ahead of its official opening night on January 19, 2027—a date that coincides with Parton's 81st birthday.
Tickets for the production go on sale on July 8, following the announcement by Parton alongside producers Danny Nozell, Adam Speers for ATG Productions and Gavin Kalin Productions.
Parton Reflects on Bringing Her Story to Broadway
Expressing her excitement about the production, Parton described the musical as a reflection of the extraordinary journey she has lived throughout her career.
She said:
"My whole life has been a musical. A grand ole opera really and I can't wait to present it to you on Broadway. I hope you enjoy watching as much as I've enjoyed livin' it."
The production traces Parton's life through her own words and music, offering audiences an intimate look at the experiences that shaped one of country music's most celebrated performers.
Featuring Dolly's Biggest Hits
Following its successful world premiere in Nashville—Parton's hometown—last summer, the Broadway production will showcase many of the singer-songwriter's most iconic songs.
The score includes timeless classics such as "I Will Always Love You," "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors," and "9 to 5," alongside new original music created specifically for the stage production.
Director Says Musical Reveals the Real Dolly
Award-winning director Bartlett Sher said audiences responded emotionally during the musical's Nashville premiere, noting that the Broadway version will offer an even deeper look into Parton's personal story.
According to Sher:
"During our world premiere in Nashville, I was overwhelmed by the deep connection audiences have with Dolly. You mention her name and people light up and share a time that she has inspired them and brought them joy."
He added that while millions know Parton as a global entertainment icon, the musical goes beyond her public image.
"But despite all of that genuine love, Dolly has never really shared her story before. She's offered glimpses and peeks, but this musical allows her to reveal the unfiltered story in her own words. As we prepare to come to Broadway, we're thrilled to show that rhinestones were never her whole story."
Creative Team Behind the Production
In addition to writing the music, Parton also co-wrote the book for the musical with two-time Emmy Award winner Maria S. Schlatter, who previously collaborated with her on the Emmy-winning Netflix film Christmas on the Square.
The production features an acclaimed creative team, including:
- Stephen Oremus – Music Supervisor
- Charity Wicks – Music Director
- John Clancy – Orchestrations
- Kent Wells – Musical Consultant
- Richard Dennison – Vocal and Music Arrangements
- Gregg Perry – Music and Vocal Arrangements
Longtime collaborators Dennison and Perry also return to help shape the musical's distinctive sound.
The production's visual and stage design team includes choreographer Mandy Moore, scenic designer Derek McLane, costume designer Jennifer Moeller, lighting designer Donald Holder, sound designer Peter Hylenski, video designers Nathan Amzi and Joe Ransom, hair designer Robert Pickens, and Studio Pickens for makeup design.
Broadway Version Refined After Nashville Premiere
Producer Adam Speers said the Broadway production has benefited from valuable lessons learned during its Nashville run, with refinements aimed at strengthening the storytelling and emotional impact.
He said:
"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."
Speers also noted the significance of opening the production on Parton's birthday.
"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."
More Announcements Expected
Producers said additional casting details, creative team announcements and other production information will be released in the coming weeks as preparations continue for the Broadway debut.
Dolly: A True Original Musical is produced by Dolly Parton, Danny Nozell, Adam Speers for ATG Productions and Gavin Kalin Productions, and is expected to be one of Broadway's most closely watched new productions when it opens in January 2027.