Dolly Parton musical set for Broadway this winter: ‘a dream come true’

Dolly Parton will celebrate turning 81 with the opening of a musical about her life on Broadway later this year.

Dolly: A True Original Musical is billed as “a remarkable journey through the life of this trailblazing woman” and is set to begin previews at New York’s St James Theatre on 7 December before opening on 19 January, the singer’s birthday.

In a video announcing the show, Parton promised that it would be “true in every sense of the word”.

“This isn’t about a story about sparkle and shine on the outside,” the singer said. “It’s about where I really come from: where I’ve lived, what I’ve lost, what I’ve loved and how I’ve found my way and told it in my own words and and through the music that’s been part of me every step of the journey.”

Parton described the show coming to New York as “a dream come true”, adding that it would feature her best-loved hits as well as new songs penned for the production.

In a press release, the singer added: “My whole life has been a musical. A grand ole opera really! We have a wonderful director, sets, costumes, choreography, music and all the things you need to make a wonderful, entertaining show! Can’t wait to see you there!”

Dolly: A True Original Musical premiered in Nashville last summer with a sold-out run at the city’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts.

In a six-decade career, Parton has blazed a trail in country music with more than 100m albums sold worldwide. According to the press release, the show will capture how she “dreamed, dared, stumbled and soared” through storytelling. It features her signature hits like I Will Always Love You, Jolene, Coat of Many Colors and 9 to 5.

The director, Bartlett Sher, explained that the show would lift the lid on the life of a much-loved but enigmatic star. “During our world premiere in Nashville, I was overwhelmed by the deep connection audiences have with Dolly. You mention her name and people light up and share a time that she has inspired them and brought them joy,” he said.

“But despite all of that genuine love, Dolly has never really shared her story before. She’s offered glimpses and peeks, but this musical allows her to reveal the unfiltered story in her own words. As we prepare to come to Broadway, we’re thrilled to show that rhinestones were never her whole story.”

Tickets are available to the general public starting 10 July, with early access for fans.