Dolly Parton's Broadway Musical Premiere Set for Early 2027
A True Original's Journey to the Great White Way
Dolly Parton's Musical Takes Center Stage on Broadway
Celebrating the iconic artist's 81st birthday, Dolly Parton's highly anticipated musical, 'Dolly: A True Original Musical,' is slated for its official premiere at New York City's St. James Theatre on January 19, 2027. Preview performances are scheduled to commence in December 2026, marking a significant milestone in Parton's illustrious career.
From Nashville Roots to Broadway Lights
Parton has dedicated several years to developing this eponymous production, first announcing the project in June 2024. The musical weaves together some of her most beloved songs, such as 'Jolene,' 'I Will Always Love You,' and '9 to 5,' alongside fresh, original compositions specifically crafted for the show. The production previously enjoyed a successful run at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville. Despite receiving a warm reception from audiences, Parton and her artistic team opted for additional refinement before its Broadway debut. Parton herself confirmed her extensive involvement in "writing and reworking" the musical during this developmental phase.
Creative Minds Behind the Production
The musical's script has been a collaborative effort, with Parton working closely with Maria Schlatter. Guiding the show's vision is Bartlett Sher, a distinguished director with nine Tony Award nominations to his name, including a win for Best Direction of a Musical in 2008. The cast for the Broadway engagement is yet to be announced, building anticipation for this star-studded event.
Balancing Creativity with Personal Well-being
The creation of 'Dolly' has been a central focus for Parton in recent years, particularly following the release of her 2023 solo album, 'Rockstar.' Her commitment to the musical has remained unwavering, even as she navigated unspecified health challenges that necessitated a reduced touring schedule and the postponement of several live performances.
A Resurgent Spirit and Public Appearances
Despite her health setbacks, Parton has steadily re-emerged into the public sphere. Recent engagements include an appearance at the grand opening of Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop, a new truck stop located in Cornersville, Tennessee. In May, Parton provided a positive update on her health, assuring fans that she was "responding really well to meds and treatments" and experiencing daily improvements, underscoring her enduring strength and dedication.