Dolly Parton’s Musical Set to Premiere in Nashville Ahead of 2026 Broadway Debut
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An exciting musical based on the life of the iconic country music star and philanthropist, Dolly Parton, is making its way to the stage. The production, titled “Dolly: An Original Musical,” is scheduled for a four-week limited engagement in Nashville before heading to Broadway in New York City in 2026. The show will kick off on July 18 at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, with the first preview performance drawing near. On August 8, the official opening of the show will take place, followed by additional performances running through August 17.
The official release for the musical highlights Dolly Parton’s remarkable career, noting her extensive catalogue of over 3,000 songs written and 25 No. 1 hits that have solidified her status as a music legend. The release poses the question of how this ‘Backwoods Barbie’ rose to become a Living Legend, setting the stage for an engaging exploration of her incredible journey.
Dolly Parton, at 70 years old, expressed her long-held desire to see her life story interpreted in a musical format. During a press conference announcing the Nashville debut of the show, she shared her excitement about overseeing the project while she is still present to ensure it aligns with her vision. Parton mentioned that the musical will feature a mix of familiar songs and new original pieces, incorporating traditional country instruments like the mandolin and fiddle to bring a touch of Nashville to New York City.
In previous interviews, Dolly Parton revealed that bringing her life story to Broadway has been a longstanding dream of hers. She emphasized the importance of being actively involved in the production process and witnessing the show come to life on such a prestigious stage. The casting for the musical is yet to be unveiled, with reports suggesting that three actors will portray Dolly at different stages of her life throughout the production.
Tickets for “Dolly: An Original Musical” are now available for purchase on the official website, dollymusical.com. The anticipation and buzz surrounding this theatrical interpretation of Dolly Parton’s life story are palpable, with fans eagerly looking forward to immersing themselves in the unique blend of music, storytelling, and nostalgia that the show promises to deliver.
As the premiere date draws closer, the excitement surrounding the musical continues to grow, with audiences eager to witness Dolly Parton’s extraordinary journey unfold on stage. The upcoming debut in Nashville serves as a prelude to the highly anticipated Broadway run in 2026, offering a glimpse into the remarkable life and career of one of music’s most beloved icons. Stay tuned for more updates and insights as “Dolly: An Original Musical” prepares to captivate audiences with its timeless tale of resilience, passion, and dedication.