The Broadway-bound Dolly Parton bio-musical has announced a world premiere bow. The previously announced tuner, formerly dubbed “Hello, I’m Dolly,” and now titled “Dolly: An Original Musical,” will begin previews on July 18 and open on Aug. 8 at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville, Tennessee. The musical, which chronicles the life and career of singer, songwriter and philanthropist Parton, is slated to play a limited run through Aug. 17, prior to opening on Broadway in 2026. Parton, Danny Nozell, ATG Productions and Gavin Kalin Productions will produce.
“Dolly” will feature songs from Parton’s catalog, as well as several new tunes written specifically for the show. Parton will collaborate with Maria S. Schlatter on the musical’s book, while Bartlett Sher will serve as director.
While Nashville is a frequent stop for national tours (usually at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center), the city less-frequently serves as a host for pre-Broadway engagements. This musical’s run at the Fisher Center, which is located on the campus of Belmont University, will be the first world premiere of a Main Stem-bound production for the venue.
“I am Tennessee born and raised, and Nashville has been my musical home for over 60 years,” said Parton in a statement. “So, this is the right and perfect place to present the world premiere of my life story as a musical. Right here in Nashville, at the beautiful Belmont University’s Fisher Center.”
The production has also announced the launch of Dolly U, an educational initiative which will offer students at Belmont a hands-on experience in the development of the new musical alongside the creative team. Dolly U, which is a partnership between Parton, Belmont and CTK Enterprises, will offer new courses at Belmont in marketing, brand partnerships and merchandising. Participants will also work as production assistants and casting ambassadors on “The Search for Dolly,” the musical’s national casting search for performers (of all experience levels) to play Parton at various stages of her life.
Casting, by Jim Carnahan and Carrie Gardner, creative team, production timeline and Broadway venue for “Dolly” will be announced. 101 Productions will serve as general manager.
