Dolly Parton is bringing her life story to Broadway with Dolly: A True Original Musical, set to begin previews at the St. James Theatre on Monday, December 7, 2026. Its official opening date is January 19, 2027, coinciding with Parton’s 81st birthday.
Tickets go on sale on Wednesday, July 8th, 2026, the producers announced.
Dolly: A True Original Musical
Parton said in a statement, “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 first premiered in Nashville last summer, giving audiences a chance to hear Parton’s story in her own words and songs. The score includes some of her most beloved hits, including I Will Always Love You, Jolene, Coat of Many Colors, and 9 to 5, alongside brand-new compositions for the stage.
Tony Award-winning director Bartlett Sher, known for To Kill a Mockingbird and South Pacific, described the production as a long-awaited opportunity to tell the country music legend’s story.
He said, “During our world premiere in Nashville, I was overwhelmed by the deep connection audiences have with Dolly.”
“But despite all of that genuine love, Dolly has never really shared her story before. She’s offered glimpses and peeks, but this musical allows her to reveal the unfiltered story in her own words. As we prepare to come to Broadway, we’re thrilled to show that rhinestones were never her whole story.”
Behind the Scenes
Parton co-wrote the musical’s book with two-time Emmy winner Maria S. Schlatter, who previously collaborated with her on the Netflix film Christmas on the Square.
The production’s music team features two-time Tony and Grammy winner Stephen Oremus as music supervisor, Charity Wicks as music director, John Clancy on orchestrations, and Kent Wells as musical consultant.
Richard Dennison and Gregg Perry, longtime collaborators with Parton, handle music and vocal arrangements.
The creative team also includes Mandy Moore (choreography), Derek McLane (scenic design), Jennifer Moeller (costumes), Donald Holder (lighting), Peter Hylenski (sound), Nathan Amzi and Joe Ransom (video), Robert Pickens (hair), and Studio Pickens (makeup). Further casting and creative details will be announced in the coming weeks.
Excitement for the Musical
Adam Speers of ATG Productions highlighted the excitement around the Broadway run.
He said, “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. 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 feels essential.”