A new musical chronicling the life and career of country music legend Dolly Parton is set to open on Broadway in January, coinciding with Parton’s 81st birthday. Titled “Dolly: A True Original Musical,” the production will begin previews on December 7 at the St. James Theatre and officially open on January 19.
The show debuted in a production at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville last year, where it received positive audience response and strong ticket sales. Despite the initial success, Parton and the creative team decided that further revisions were necessary before the Broadway launch. The musical has been undergoing refinements over the past year.
The production is directed by Bartlett Sher, a well-known Broadway director and nine-time Tony Award nominee who won the best director Tony in 2008 for a revival of “South Pacific.” The musical features a mix of Parton’s classic hits such as “I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” and “9 to 5,” alongside new songs composed specifically for this show. Parton co-wrote the musical’s book with Maria S. Schlatt. Parton has previous Broadway experience, having written the music and lyrics for the 2009 musical “9 to 5.”
Originally titled “Hello, I’m Dolly,” the production is produced by Dolly Parton herself, along with her manager Danny Nozell, Adam Speers of ATG Productions, and Gavin Kalin Productions. The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development is also presenting the Broadway staging.
Casting details have not been released, and Parton will not appear on stage in the musical. The production aims to offer a comprehensive look at Parton’s extensive career, celebrating her influence as a singer, songwriter, and cultural icon.