A Dolly Parton biographical musical is headed to Broadway this winter, with an opening night set for January 19, 2027, the same date as Parton's 81st birthday. The show, titled Dolly: A True Original Musical, will begin previews at the St. James Theatre on December 7, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
The musical premiered in Nashville in July 2025 before making the move to Broadway. It features a score built around Parton's most recognized songs, including "I Will Always Love You," "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors" and "9 to 5," alongside new songs Parton wrote specifically for the production.
Parton co-wrote the book with Maria S. Schlatter, who previously wrote Parton's Christmas on the Square. Tony Award winner Bartlett Sher, known for directing South Pacific, helms the production.
Parton commented on the show's arrival on Broadway. "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," she said.
In Nashville, three actresses shared the role of Parton at different stages of her life: Carrie St. Louis, Katie Rose Clarke and Quinn Titcomb. Casting for the Broadway production has not yet been announced.
The show is produced by Danny Nozell, Adam Speers for ATG Productions and Gavin Kalin Productions. Producer Speers addressed what changed between Nashville and Broadway. "After everything we learned during our world premiere in Nashville, we're shaping the show and deepening the storytelling so that the Broadway production fully captures the spirit of this amazing woman," Speers said. "To be opening the show on Dolly's 81st birthday is not only a celebration of a milestone, but of a life shaped by generosity, courage, and purpose that, in this moment, feels not only uplifting and inspiring, but essential."
This is not Parton's first connection to Broadway. She previously wrote the Tony-nominated score for the stage adaptation of 9 to 5: The Musical, which ran on Broadway in 2009.
The St. James Theatre is currently home to Titanique, which is scheduled to close in September, clearing the way for Dolly: A True Original Musical to move in.
