Dolly Parton’s journey from humble beginnings to fame has inspired not only her music but also a theme park, a podcast, and now a musical heading to Broadway later this year. Titled “Dolly: A True Original Musical,” the show aims to present a narrative that is uniquely Dolly’s, using her own words and the songs that have been pivotal in her life.
In a video announcement, the 80-year-old icon assured that the musical would authentically portray her experiences. She emphasized that the production delves into her real-life struggles, triumphs, and the path she navigated to success, rather than focusing solely on external glitz.
Featuring a blend of new compositions specially crafted for the musical and some of Parton’s classic hits like “I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” and “9 to 5,” the performances are slated to commence in New York City on December 7 this year, running until November 21, 2027.
Parton, with a career spanning nearly seven decades, expressed her excitement about the upcoming show, calling it a dream come true. The acclaimed singer-songwriter, known for her extensive repertoire of over 3,000 songs and having sold more than 100 million albums globally, has been honored with inductions into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
The musical had its debut in Nashville last summer, drawing sold-out crowds during its six-week residency at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts. Director Bartlett Sher remarked on the profound connection audiences share with Dolly, citing her ability to inspire and bring joy to people through her music.
According to the show’s statement, “Dolly” offers an unfiltered portrayal of the artist’s life, going beyond the superficial glamour associated with her image. Tickets for the Broadway production will be available for purchase starting Friday, July 10.
