Dolly Parton’s autobiographical Broadway musical will proceed as planned following the country music legend’s death at 80.
“As was Dolly’s wish, the Broadway production of ‘Dolly: A True Original Musical’ will begin previews December 7 at the St. James Theatre in New York City with opening set for January 19, 2027, what would have been her 81st birthday,” a spokesperson for the production told TheWrap on Tuesday.
Parton announced the Broadway engagement in July. The production will tell her story through some of her biggest hits, including “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You,” alongside new songs she wrote specifically for the musical.
Parton co-wrote the show’s book with two-time Emmy winner Maria S. Schlatter. Tony winner Bartlett Sher is directing, with “So You Think You Can Dance” and “La La Land” choreographer Mandy Moore choreographing the production.
The musical had its world premiere last summer at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Belmont University in Nashville. The sold-out engagement became the most successful production in the venue’s history, according to the Broadway producers.
Parton described her life as “a grand ole opera” when she announced the Broadway transfer and said she hoped audiences would enjoy watching it as much as she had enjoyed living it. The production is billed as Parton’s story told in her own words, following her journey from the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee to international stardom.
Parton was also a producer alongside Danny Nozell, Adam Speers for ATG Productions and Gavin Kalin Productions. The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development is presenting the Broadway engagement, with 101 Productions serving as general manager.
The show marks Parton’s latest Broadway venture after she wrote the music and lyrics for the 2009 stage adaptation of “9 to 5.” The production received four Tony Award nominations, including one for Parton’s original score.
Parton’s death was announced Tuesday by her family. Her nephew Bryan Seaver, who served as her head of security for more than two decades, shared the news in a video posted to the singer’s social media accounts. A cause of death was not immediately disclosed.
The singer had experienced a series of health issues over the past year that led her to postpone and later cancel several appearances, including a Las Vegas residency. Her husband of nearly six decades, Carl Dean, died in March 2025.
Over a career spanning more than six decades, Parton became one of country music’s most successful and recognizable figures. In addition to writing thousands of songs and selling more than 100 million records, she crossed into film with roles in “9 to 5,” “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” and “Steel Magnolias.” She was inducted into both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Tickets for “Dolly: A True Original Musical” remain on sale through the production’s official website.
