Broadway Musical Moves Forward
Dolly Parton's Broadway-Bound Musical Moves Forward Following Her Death at Age 80
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Key Points
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The Nashville world premiere occurred in July 2025 under the title 'Dolly: An Original Musical,' before transferring to Broadway.
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The show’s score blends Parton’s iconic hits with new songs written specifically for the musical, including staples like 'I Will Always Love You,' 'Jolene,' 'Coat of Many Colors' and '9 to 5.'
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Mandy Moore is confirmed to continue as choreographer for the Broadway run, carrying over from the Nashville production.
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In Nashville, the Parton portrayal featured Carrie St. Louis, Katie Rose Clarke and Quinn Titcomb at different life stages, with Broadway casting not yet announced at the time of reporting.
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Dolly Parton died on August 25, 2026 at age 80; her death was announced via social media, with her nephew Bryan Seaver confirming the news and followers paying tribute.
Dolly Parton died on August 25, 2026 at age 80, but her Broadway musical will premiere as planned this December. Variety reports that producers affirmed the show will open "as was Dolly's wish," with previews beginning December 7 at the St. James Theatre in New York City and opening night set for January 19, 2027 — what would have been her 81st birthday.
The musical, titled "Dolly: A True Original Musical," tells Parton's life story through her iconic hits like "Jolene," "I Will Always Love You," and "9 to 5" mixed with new songs she wrote for the show. Daily Mail notes Parton co-wrote the book and served as lead producer before her death, making this her final passion project.
From Nashville Stage to Broadway
The musical had its world premiere in Nashville in July 2025 under the title "Dolly: An Original Musical" before heading to Broadway. Director Bartlett Sher remains at the helm for the New York run. Complex reports the production features music director Mandy Moore as choreographer, continuing her role from the Nashville production.
Parton's Songs Old and New Drive the Story
The musical blends Parton's biggest hits with original compositions written specifically for the stage. The score includes classics like "Coat of Many Colors," "Jolene," "I Will Always Love You," and "9 to 5." Daily Mail confirms that Parton co-wrote the book alongside Maria S. Schlatter, telling her life story in her own words through both beloved and brand-new songs.
Her Legacy Takes Center Stage
Broadway casting had not been announced before Parton's death, though Variety reports the Nashville production featured Carrie St. Louis, Katie Rose Clarke, and Quinn Titcomb portraying Parton at different life stages. The decision to move forward honors the country music icon's lifelong commitment to storytelling and her vision for how audiences would experience her journey.
A Final Passion Project Coming to Life
Producers emphasized that continuing the Broadway run respects Parton's final wishes. Variety quoted the production team saying the show will open "as was Dolly's wish," framing it as a fitting tribute to an artist who spent her career entertaining millions. The January 19 opening date on her birthday adds symbolic weight to what many view as her ultimate gift to theater and fans alike.
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