Dolly Parton’s journey from hardship to success has not only inspired her music but also led to the creation of a theme park, a podcast, and now a Broadway musical set to debut later this year. Titled “Dolly: A True Original Musical,” the production aims to narrate Dolly’s life experiences in her own words, intertwined with the impactful songs that have shaped her existence.
In a video announcement about the musical’s Broadway arrival, the 80-year-old icon assured viewers that the portrayal would be authentic. She emphasized that the musical delves into her genuine origins, losses, loves, and the path she took to find herself, rather than just focusing on external glitz.
The show will feature not only new compositions penned specifically for the musical but also some of Dolly Parton’s iconic hits like “I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” and “9 to 5.” Scheduled to kick off on December 7 in New York City, the performances are slated to continue until November 21, 2027.
Expressing her excitement, Parton, a seasoned artist with a musical career spanning nearly seven decades, described the opportunity as a dream come true. With over 3,000 songs to her credit and more than 100 million albums sold worldwide, Parton’s legacy includes prestigious inductions into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
The musical, which premiered in Nashville last summer to a sold-out six-week run at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, garnered overwhelming audience response. Director Bartlett Sher acknowledged the profound connection people share with Dolly, recounting how she has inspired and brought joy to countless individuals over the years.
The production promises an unfiltered narrative from Dolly Parton, shedding light on aspects of her life beyond the glitz and glamour associated with her persona. Tickets for the show will be available to the public starting Friday, July 10 through the official website.