Dolly Parton has announced firm Broadway dates for DOLLY: A True Original Musical, moving ahead with a major career milestone after months of health-related schedule changes.
PEOPLE reported that the musical will begin previews Dec. 7 at New York City’s St. James Theatre, with opening night set for Jan. 19, 2027 which marks Parton’s 81st birthday.
The Broadway announcement marks a major comeback for Parton following a difficult stretch of health struggles, canceled shows, and the 2025 death of her husband, Carl Dean.
The Musical Will Tell Parton’s Story in Her Own Words
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The show is built around Parton’s life, music and rise from East Tennessee to international fame. It will include some of her best-known songs, including “I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors” and “9 to 5,” along with new music she wrote for the stage.
Parton co-wrote the book with Maria S. Schlatter, while Tony-winning director Bartlett Sher is leading the production. The musical’s official site describes it as a “rags-to-rhinestones” story that covers Parton’s triumphs, trials and trailblazing career.
The Guardian reported that Parton called the Broadway move “a dream come true” and said the musical would show more than the sparkle and shine people already know.
The Broadway Run Follows a Nashville Premiere
DOLLY: A True Original Musical previously played a Nashville engagement at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts. PEOPLE reported that the Nashville run sold out and became the most successful production in the venue’s history.
The Broadway casting has not yet been announced. In Nashville, Katie Rose Clarke, Carrie St. Louis and Quinn Titcomb shared the role of Dolly at different stages of her life, a structure similar to other biographical musicals that split one famous life across multiple performers.
Playbill reported that the Broadway production will arrive after that pre-Broadway run with a creative team that also includes choreographer Mandy Moore, music supervisor Stephen Oremus, scenic designer Derek McLane and costume designer Gregg Barnes.
The Announcement Comes After a Health Update
The Broadway news arrived after Parton told fans she was still recovering from health issues. In May, she said her treatments were going well and that she remained involved with the musical while continuing to heal.
Parton also canceled her Las Vegas residency after previously postponing it because of health challenges. The Guardian reported that she said she was improving with medication and treatment, but was not physically ready for the demands of live stage performances.
Tickets Are Coming Soon
The musical’s website says fan and eligible Capital One cardholder presales begin July 8 at 10 a.m. ET. General public ticket sales begin July 10 at 10 a.m. ET.
PEOPLE reported that initial tickets are expected to cover performances through Nov. 21, 2027.
By setting a Broadway opening for Jan. 19, 2027, DOLLY: A True Original Musical puts the next chapter of Parton’s story on the calendar, her life, songs and her 81st birthday, all on the same New York stage.