Dolly Parton announces major career move after sharing health struggles
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Singer and songwriter Dolly Parton has announced that production of 'Dolly: A True Original Musical' is heading to Broadway while reflecting on her life and journey in a new Instagram video.
The country music icon described the musical as an honest look at life, tracing the journey from humble beginnings through defining personal and professional experiences. Despite not appearing on stage, Parton said the musical is told through original words and music.
Dolly Parton brings 'unfiltered' life story to Broadway stage
"Now, this isn’t about a story about sparkle and shine on the outside," Parton said in the Instagram video, adding, "It’s about where I really come from, what I’ve lived, what I’ve lost, what I’ve loved, and how I’ve found my way."
The 80-year-old singer added that the musical will be told in her "own words and through the music that’s been part of my every step of the journey." She also revealed that she has written new songs specifically for the production, while fans will also hear some of her biggest hits.
"This really is a dream come true," she said, adding, "I can’t wait to share it with all of you." In a separate statement, she said, "My whole life has been a musical. A grand ole opera really and I can’t wait to present it to you on Broadway. I hope you enjoy watching as much as I’ve enjoyed livin’ it."
Directed by Tony Award winner Bartlett Sher, the musical will begin preview performances on December 7 at New York City's St James Theatre before officially opening on January 19, 2027, which is also Parton's 81st birthday.
The production follows the Grammy-winning star's journey "from the top of the Smoky Mountains to the top of the world," tracing the dreams, setbacks and triumphs that transformed her into one of music's most enduring stars.
Along with classics including 'Jolene,' 'I Will Always Love You,' '9 to 5' and 'Coat of Many Colors,' the score will feature new songs written by Parton, who also penned the book with two-time Emmy Award winner Maria S Schlatter.
Dolly Parton's Broadway production follows Nashville success
The Broadway run follows the musical's sold-out world premiere in Nashville last year, which became the most successful production in the history of Belmont University's Fisher Center for the Performing Arts. The show has since undergone changes, though producers said its heart remains the same, offering audiences a deeper look into Parton's life than ever before.
Sher said, "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 further 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."
At the musical's Nashville opening night, Parton thanked those involved with the production, saying, "This has been a lifetime int he works and I hope everyone enjoyed it. And I want to thank our wonderful cast and crew. And of course, I always want to thank you — the fans and family and everybody here tonight. A toast to anybody who had anything to do with this wonderful night and this wonderful show."
The Broadway announcement comes after Parton publicly revealed health challenges in September 2025, when she withdrew from an appearance at Dollyworld due to kidney stones. Earlier that year, in March, her husband Carl Dean died at the age of 82.
