In an exciting development for musical theatre aficionados, Dolly Parton’s life story is set to hit the Broadway stage in ‘DOLLY: A True Original Musical.’ The iconic country singer personally selected the five lead actors to portray key figures in her journey, offering fans an intimate look at the woman behind the rhinestones.
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Preview performances for the much-anticipated musical are slated to commence on 7 December at the St. James Theatre in New York City. The official opening night is scheduled for 19 January 2027, coinciding with what would have been Parton’s 81st birthday. The production promises to trace her incredible trajectory, from her modest beginnings in the Great Smoky Mountains to her rise as a global superstar.
Katie Rose Clarke, Carrie St. Louis, and Norah Nunes will take on the role of Parton at different points in her life. Clarke will portray the celebrated star later in her career, while St. Louis will depict her ambitious younger self during her arrival in Nashville. Nunes, at just 11 years old, will make her Broadway debut as “Little Dolly,” showcasing Parton’s early years.
Alongside these talented actresses, Gabriel Ebert is set to characterise Porter Wagoner, Parton’s musical collaborator who played a pivotal role in launching her career in country music. John Behlmann will portray Parton’s husband, Carl Dean, a notoriously private figure who remained by her side until his passing in 2025.
The cast recently participated in a special photo shoot overseen by Steve Summers, Parton’s long-time creative director. Summers even took the time to add rhinestones to Clarke’s costume, highlighting the distinctive glamour characteristic of Parton’s style.
Director Bartlett Sher expressed his enthusiasm for working with Clarke once again, noting the remarkable journey they have shared over the past two decades. He praised Clarke’s talent and her ability to deeply embody Parton’s multidimensional character. “Katie, Carrie, and Norah don’t just play the Dolly we all know; they show us the real woman behind the glamour,” he remarked, underscoring the personal stories intertwined with Parton’s public persona.
Carrie St. Louis and Gabriella Ebert, both seasoned performers in their own right, echoed Clarke’s sentiments regarding their collective responsibility to portray Parton accurately and respectfully. St. Louis emphasised the significance of sharing Parton’s story, which resonates with themes of perseverance and ambition. Nunes, who had the unique opportunity to meet with Parton, described the icon as kind and humble, capturing the essence of her enduring influence.
Behlmann, reprising his role as Dean, remarked on the qualities that make Parton so relatable to audiences. He emphasized her grace, humour, and dedication, which transcends her already remarkable career as a music artist. Ebert also highlighted the joy in Parton’s legacy, noting her example of navigating life with positivity and resilience.
Adding to the musical’s allure, Parton contributed to its storytelling by co-writing the book alongside Maria S. Schlatter and incorporating a mixture of her classic hits and new material. Songs like “I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene,” and “9 to 5” will feature prominently throughout the production, offering audiences a rich tapestry of musical artistry while also depicting the personal experiences that shaped the singer’s life.
Dolly Parton’s active involvement has continued throughout the show’s development, ensuring that her narrative remains authentic and resonant. Sher believes that there has never been a more crucial time for this story to be told, emphasizing Parton as a cultural icon whose messages of hope and creativity inspire audiences even today.
Further extending her impact, Parton and the production have partnered with the New York City Department of Education to offer 30,000 free tickets to public middle and high school students, ensuring that her inspiring narrative reaches a diverse audience. New York City Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels lauded this initiative, recognising the importance of arts education and the potential for students to connect with the journey of the country music legend.
With tickets now available for ‘DOLLY: A True Original Musical,’ the excitement continues to build for this unique Broadway experience. As additional casting details are expected to emerge, anticipation grows for what promises to be a celebration of one of country music’s most beloved icons.