Dolly Parton’s Musical Will Still Open on Broadway ‘As Was Dolly’s Wish’

Dolly Parton's Broadway musical will move forward as scheduled after the country music icon passed away at 80. Broadway producers announced that previews for "Dolly: A True Original Musical" will begin on December 7, 2025, at the St. James Theatre in New York City, with a January 19, 2027 opening to mark what would have been her 81st birthday.

Parton revealed the Broadway plans in July, sharing that the show would recount her life through her biggest hits and new compositions penned for the production. Co-written by Maria S. Schlatter and directed by Tony winner Bartlett Sher, the show also features choreography by Mandy Moore. The musical opened as a sold-out sensation at Belmont University in Nashville, becoming the venue's highest-grossing production to date.

Parton, who described her life as "a grand ole opera," hoped audiences would relish the stage adaptation as she had cherished her own experiences. The project includes Parton's production alongside Danny Nozell, Adam Speers for ATG Productions and Gavin Kalin Productions, with the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development presenting and 101 Productions serving as general manager.

This marks Parton's most recent Broadway endeavor following her 2009 adaptation of "9 to 5," which earned four Tony Award nominations, including one for her original score. Dolly Parton passed away peacefully in Nashville on Tuesday, as her family announced. A cause of death has not been disclosed. Parton's health struggles over the past year prompted the postponement and cancellation of several appearances, including a Las Vegas residency.

She was survived by her husband of nearly six decades, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025. Throughout a six-decade career, Parton achieved immense success in country music, with over 100 million records sold and roles in notable films such as "9 to 5," "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas," and "Steel Magnolias." Inducted into both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Parton's legacy remains strong, and "Dolly: A True Original Musical" tickets remain available for purchase through the show's official website.