Dolly Parton is bringing her story to New York. “Dolly: A True Original Musical” will begin previews at the St. James Theatre on December 7, with an official opening night set for January 19, 2027, which is Parton’s 81st birthday.
The biomusical, which had its world premiere in Nashville last summer under a slightly different title, follows Parton’s journey from her childhood in the Smoky Mountains to global superstardom. The score blends new songs written for the show with beloved staples like “I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors” and “9 to 5.” Parton co-wrote the book with Emmy winner Maria S. Schlatter, and Tony winner Bartlett Sher directs.
“My whole life has been a musical,” Parton said in a statement. “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.”
Sher added that the Nashville run revealed just how deeply audiences connect with Parton, saying the Broadway version will finally let her “reveal the unfiltered story in her own words.”
This marks Parton’s second trip to Broadway, following 2009’s “9 to 5: The Musical.” It also comes as the icon canceled a planned Las Vegas residency this year while managing ongoing health treatments, making the Broadway run one of the closest chances fans will get to experience her story live.
