Dolly Parton’s journey from humble beginnings to immense success has not only inspired her songwriting but also led to the creation of a theme park, a podcast, and now a musical set to debut on Broadway later this year.
Titled “Dolly: A True Original Musical,” the show is poised to narrate a personal tale that only Dolly herself can articulate, using her own words and the music that has shaped her life. In a video announcement about the upcoming musical, the 80-year-old artist assured viewers that all details would be authentic.
Parton emphasized that the musical would delve into her real experiences, including struggles, losses, loves, and self-discovery, rather than focusing solely on outward glamour. The production will feature new songs specifically crafted for the show, along with some of Parton’s iconic hits like “I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” and “9 to 5.”
Scheduled to kick off in New York City on December 7th this year, performances are slated to run until November 21, 2027. Parton expressed her excitement, labeling this opportunity as a dream come true, especially considering her illustrious career spanning nearly seven decades, with over 3,000 songs written and more than 100 million albums sold globally. She is also a distinguished member of both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
The musical initially premiered in Nashville last summer, drawing a sold-out crowd during its six-week stint at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts. Director Bartlett Sher remarked on the profound connection audiences share with Dolly, noting how she has consistently inspired and brought joy to countless individuals over the years.
The show promises to unveil a raw, unfiltered side of Parton that audiences have not seen before, emphasizing that her story goes beyond the glitz and glamour associated with her persona. Tickets for the Broadway production will be available to the public starting Friday, July 10.