A new musical inspired by the life of American country music icon Dolly Parton is set to make its Broadway debut in January 2027. The production, titled ‘Dolly: An Original Musical’, will open at the St. James Theatre in New York City, with preview performances starting on December 7, 2026. Notably, the opening night is scheduled for January 19, 2027, which coincides with Parton’s 81st birthday.
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‘Dolly: An Original Musical’ follows a successful premiere run in Nashville and promises to showcase the stories behind Parton’s rise to fame. Directed by Tony Award winner Bartlett Sher, the musical will explore the remarkable journey of the beloved artist from her modest beginnings in the Smoky Mountains to her status as a global superstar. The production seeks to present an intimate portrait of Parton’s life that delves deeper than what audiences may have known.
In her own words, Parton articulated her excitement about the project, stating, “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 show will feature some of her most iconic songs, including “I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” and “9 to 5,” alongside new tracks specifically written for the musical.
Parton also collaborated on the book for the production with two-time Emmy Award winner Maria S. Schlatter. Following its Nashville debut, which became the highest-grossing production in the history of Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, the musical’s creative team has continued to refine and develop the show for its upcoming Broadway engagement.
Although casting details remain undisclosed, the Nashville run featured three actresses portraying different stages of Parton’s life: Katie Rose Clarke, Carrie St. Louis, and Quinn Titcomb. Their performances ranged from portraying her humble beginnings to her eventual rise as a household name, employing a structure reminiscent of previous biomusicals that have celebrated other legendary artists.
The production’s creative team, comprising choreographer Mandy Moore, scenic designer Derek McLane, costume designer Jennifer Moeller, lighting designer Donald Holder, and sound designer Peter Hylenski, is set to bring the musical to life. Their collaboration hints at a spectacular theatrical experience that’s both visually and emotionally engaging.
Reflecting on the Nashville premiere, Sher remarked on the emotional connections audiences had with Parton, noting how her name alone ignites joy and fond memories. He emphasised that while Parton has only offered glimpses of her life thus far, the musical presents an opportunity for her to share her unfiltered story. “This musical allows her to reveal the unfiltered story in her own words,” Sher stated, preparing to introduce the show to a new audience on Broadway.
During the Nashville opening, Parton expressed her gratitude towards the cast and crew, stating, “This has been a lifetime in the works, and I hope everyone enjoyed it.” She acknowledged the loyal support of her fans and highlighted the teamwork that went into creating the production.
Dolly Parton has enjoyed a prolific career that spans over six decades, selling more than 100 million albums worldwide and writing more than 3,000 songs, with 25 of those hitting No. 1 on the charts. Aside from her musical achievements, she is also recognised for her charitable work, notably founding the Imagination Library, which provides books to children globally.
For those eager to attend ‘Dolly: An Original Musical’, tickets will go on presale for fans who register through the musical’s dedicated website and eligible Capital One cardholders starting July 8, 2026. General ticket sales will commence on July 10, 2026, with initial availability extending through November 21, 2027.
As anticipation builds for this unique celebration of Dolly Parton’s life and music, Broadway is set to welcome back an icon whose influences and contributions resonate far beyond the stage.