Dolly Parton’s journey from humble beginnings to fame has not only inspired her music but also led to the creation of a theme park, a podcast, and soon, a musical set to hit Broadway later this year. Entitled “Dolly: A True Original Musical,” the production aims to authentically portray Dolly’s life through her own words and the songs that have shaped her experiences.
In a video announcement, the 80-year-old Parton assured viewers that the musical would recount her true story, delving into her roots, challenges, triumphs, and personal revelations rather than focusing solely on glitz and glamour. The show will feature a mix of new songs created specifically for the production and some of Parton’s most 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, the performances are slated to run until November 21, 2027. Parton expressed her excitement about the upcoming musical, marking yet another milestone in her nearly seven-decade-long career, during which she has penned over 3,000 songs, sold more than 100 million albums worldwide, and earned spots in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
The musical, which debuted in Nashville last summer to a sold-out six-week run at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, elicited a strong emotional response from audiences, highlighting the enduring impact of Dolly’s work. Director Bartlett Sher emphasized the profound connection people feel with Dolly, citing how she has consistently inspired and brought joy to countless individuals.
Promising an unfiltered glimpse into Dolly’s life beyond the glitz and rhinestones, the show aims to showcase a more authentic portrayal of the legendary artist. Tickets for the Broadway production will be available to the public starting Friday, July 10th.