Dolly Parton’s long-anticipated Broadway musical, "Dolly: A True Original Musical," is scheduled to begin previews on December 7 and officially open on January 19 at the St. James Theater, despite the recent passing of the country music icon. Parton, who died last Tuesday in Nashville at the age of 80, was one of the show’s lead producers and had hoped to attend the opening night, which coincides with what would have been her 81st birthday. The production team has affirmed that the show will proceed on schedule, honoring Parton’s wishes.
The musical, which chronicles Parton’s life and career, had been a passion project for the singer and songwriter for nearly a decade. Development began at least as early as 2016, with the production undergoing various changes, including its title. The show had a successful run in Nashville during the summer of the previous year, paving the way for its Broadway debut. In July, Parton personally announced the Broadway dates through a social media video, describing the musical as “a dream come true” and emphasizing its honest portrayal of her life beyond the glamour.
Parton co-wrote the book with Maria S. Schlatter and contributed both classic hits and new original songs to the score. She actively promoted the production, using her platform to generate interest and ticket sales in the months leading up to the opening. The musical is directed by Bartlett Sher, a Broadway veteran with nine Tony Award nominations and a win for best direction in 2008 for the revival of “South Pacific.”
Alongside Parton, the producing team includes Adam Speers of ATG Productions, a British company currently in the process of being acquired by Hollywood executive Ari Emanuel’s venture, Mari. Other producers are Danny Nozell, Parton’s longtime manager, and Gavin Kalin, known for numerous Broadway and West End productions. The cast for the Broadway run has yet to be announced.
Parton’s involvement with Broadway is not new; she was nominated for a Tony Award in 2009 for best score for the musical adaptation of her 1980 film “9 to 5.” In addition to writing and performing the film’s title song, Parton also starred in the movie, which helped cement her crossover appeal beyond country music.
With Parton’s unexpected death, the upcoming production holds added significance as a tribute to her enduring legacy in music and theater. The producers and creative team have expressed their commitment to bring her story to the stage as she envisioned, ensuring that the musical will be a testament to her life, artistry, and spirit.