Dolly Parton sets Broadway opening date for new musical for her 81st birthday

Dolly Parton has officially confirmed that her long awaited Broadway musical, Dolly: A True Original Musical, will open on January 19, 2027, a date that also marks the country music legend's 81st birthday. The production will be staged at the historic St James Theatre, with preview performances beginning on December 7, 2026.

The announcement was made by Parton alongside producers Danny Nozell, Adam Speers for ATG Productions and Gavin Kalin Productions. Tickets are scheduled to go on sale on July 8, giving theatre fans their first opportunity to secure seats for one of Broadway's most anticipated new productions.

The musical had its world premiere in Nashville during 2025, where audiences were introduced to a stage production telling Parton's life story through her own words and music. The Broadway version builds on that successful debut while incorporating further creative refinements developed during the original run.

Parton shared her excitement in a statement, saying, "My whole life has been a musical. A grand ole opera really and I cannot wait to present it to you on Broadway. I hope you enjoy watching as much as I've enjoyed livin' it."

The production features many of the songs that helped establish Parton as one of country music's most influential performers. Audiences can expect to hear classics including "I Will Always Love You," "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors" and "9 to 5," alongside new music written especially for the stage show.

Award winning director Bartlett Sher returns to lead the Broadway production after overseeing the Nashville premiere. Sher said audiences have always shared a deeply personal connection with Parton, adding that while many people know her public image, the musical allows her to tell her complete story with greater honesty and depth.

According to Sher, the Broadway version aims to show that the rhinestones and glamour associated with Parton represent only one part of her remarkable journey. The production instead focuses on the determination, resilience and generosity that have defined her decades long career.

Parton also co wrote the musical's book with two time Emmy Award winner Maria S Schlatter. The pair previously collaborated on the Emmy winning Netflix film Christmas on the Square. The creative team also includes two time Tony Award winner Stephen Oremus as music supervisor, Charity Wicks as music director, John Clancy handling orchestrations and longtime Parton collaborator Kent Wells serving as musical consultant. Richard Dennison and Gregg Perry have contributed vocal and music arrangements.

The production brings together an accomplished Broadway creative team, including choreographer Mandy Moore, scenic designer Derek McLane, costume designer Jennifer Moeller, lighting designer Donald Holder and sound designer Peter Hylenski. Additional contributions come from Nathan Amzi and Joe Ransom on video design, while Robert Pickens and Studio Pickens oversee hair and makeup design.

Casting for the Broadway production has yet to be announced, with producers confirming that further details will be revealed in the coming weeks.