Dolly Parton’s Life Story to Premiere as a Musical in Nashville Before Broadway Debut in 2026
In what promises to be a significant milestone in her already legendary career, country music icon and philanthropist Dolly Parton has announced that her long-awaited musical, Dolly: An Original Musical, will premiere in Nashville before moving to Broadway in 2026. The show, which tells the remarkable story of Parton’s rise from humble beginnings to international stardom, will debut in Nashville at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts.
The limited engagement will run for four weeks, starting with a preview performance on July 18, followed by the official opening on August 8. The show will continue through August 17, giving fans a special opportunity to witness the beginning of what is sure to be a Broadway sensation.
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A Dream Come True for Dolly
At a press conference announcing the musical’s Nashville debut, a visibly excited Dolly Parton, 70, shared how meaningful this production is to her personally. “I’ve always wanted to do my life story as a musical,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. “I wanted to see it done while I’m still around, to be able to oversee it and make sure that it’s done properly in a way that I would want to see it, rather than to wait till I’m gone and let somebody else decide how they think it should be done.”
This musical is not just a retelling of her life but a way for Parton to bring her story to the stage in a format that blends her country roots with the grandeur of Broadway. “I’m excited to bring Nashville to New York with all those country sounds,” she continued, emphasizing that the show would feature a mix of familiar hits and original songs. “There’s a lot of country instruments like mandolin and fiddle, but I’m also writing new pieces with strings and an orchestra. It’s going to be bigger and broader, and it’s fun to bring something so unique to the stage.”
A True Reflection of Dolly’s Legacy
The musical, Dolly: An Original Musical, will not only showcase Parton’s biggest songs but will also introduce a new wave of original material. Known for writing more than 3,000 songs throughout her career, including 25 No. 1 hits, Dolly’s vast catalog will be front and center. Yet, Parton promises that the new songs will add layers to her story, offering fans an even deeper understanding of her journey.
During the press conference, Parton highlighted the importance of incorporating the essence of her early years in Tennessee and how she wanted the musical to feel authentic to her roots. “It’s exciting for me to write the new stuff, especially for the orchestra. It’s going to be great to hear those strings,” she shared.
As part of the creative vision, Dolly: An Original Musical will feature three actors portraying Parton at different stages of her life, a nod to the different facets of her career and personal journey. Parton joked about the decision, saying, “I wish I had three of me a lot of times, the way I work.”
From Nashville to Broadway
After the musical’s engagement in Nashville, Parton plans to bring the production to Broadway in 2026, making it the culmination of a lifelong dream. “Right now, I’m working on my life story as a musical, and so going on Broadway and opening my show on Broadway, that’s been a biggie in my mind for many, many years,” she told PEOPLE earlier this year. “That’d be the one that I want to make certain I get done while I’m still kicking, while I’m around to stay involved in it.”
Parton’s ambition to bring her story to the Broadway stage has been years in the making, and she has remained deeply involved in the project to ensure it reflects both her roots and her incredible career. The show will be a reflection of everything that has made Dolly Parton a living legend, from her songwriting prowess and timeless voice to her fierce determination and commitment to philanthropy.
What to Expect
With the combination of Dolly’s iconic songs and a full orchestra, Dolly: An Original Musical is set to captivate audiences in Nashville before heading to the bright lights of Broadway. Casting details are still under wraps, but fans are eagerly awaiting the revelation of the actors who will bring the story to life.
While this new venture is a major step in Dolly’s career, it’s also a celebration of her legacy, the highs and lows of her journey, and the incredible impact she’s had not only on country music but on the world. From her childhood in the Smoky Mountains to her rise as a global superstar, Dolly’s musical will serve as a testament to her resilience, her talent, and her unbreakable spirit.
As Dolly’s life story comes to the stage, it’s sure to inspire, entertain, and remind us all of the power of following our dreams—even when those dreams are bigger than life itself.