Table of content
    Was this helpful?
    Thumbs UP Thumbs Down

    Dolly Parton’s “Dolly: An Original Musical”


    By continuing to use this website you agree to our terms and conditions. If you don't agree with our terms and conditions, you are not permitted to continue using this website.

    Dolly Parton
    Table of Contents

    Dolly Parton is one of the most beloved figures in country music, and now, she’s bringing her incredible life story to the stage with Dolly: An Original Musical.

    The legendary singer-songwriter, actress, and businesswoman has been a powerhouse in the entertainment industry for decades, and this new musical promises to celebrate her legacy in a way fans have never seen before.

    Set to premiere in Nashville in the summer of 2025, the production will feature original songs, stunning performances, and an intimate look at the moments that shaped Parton’s journey.

    While many artists wait until after their lifetime to have their stories told, Parton is taking matters into her own hands, ensuring her story is portrayed exactly as she wants it. From the creative process to the music and costume design, she’s actively involved in every detail.

    Let’s look at it more closely!

    Why a Musical?

    Dolly’s Inspiration Behind the Project

    Dolly Parton has never been one to shy away from bold ideas, and bringing her life to the stage is no exception.

    In a recent interview, she explained that she’s always wanted to tell her story through a musical format. But why now? The answer is simple: she wants to be around to oversee the process and make sure it’s done right.

    “I’ve always wanted to do my life story as a musical,” she said. “And I just thought I wanted to see it done while I was still around, to make sure I can oversee and make sure it’s done properly.”

    This statement reflects Parton’s signature hands-on approach. Whether it’s her music, Dollywood theme park, or philanthropy, she takes pride in being directly involved in her projects.

    With Dolly: An Original Musical, she’s ensuring that the final product truly reflects her story, values, and spirit.

    Balancing Country Roots with Broadway Magic

    Creating a musical about someone as unique as Dolly Parton requires a careful balance.

    While Broadway is known for its grand performances and theatrical storytelling, Parton’s roots are deeply embedded in country music. Blending these two worlds is one of the most exciting challenges of the production.

    To make sure the musical has the right feel, Parton has written several new songs specifically for the show. “I wanted to think how I could be more ‘Broadway,’” she explained.

    “So, there are new songs that are really tailor-made to what I thought how Broadway would be while still keeping that country flavor.”

    This means audiences can expect a mix of big, theatrical numbers and the heartfelt, storytelling-driven music that has made Parton famous.

    It’s a musical that will appeal not only to country music fans but also to Broadway lovers looking for something fresh and exciting.

    Why Nashville?

    The Significance of the Premiere Location

    Instead of debuting in New York, Parton has chosen Nashville, Tennessee as the launching pad for her musical. For her, this decision was deeply personal.

    “I take great pride in Tennessee,” she said. “Anything to do with Tennessee, especially Nashville… I am just so proud of Belmont. The youth [at the university], the excitement, I am just so proud of it all.”

    Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts will host the first performances before the show eventually moves to Broadway.

    This decision reflects Parton’s love for her home state and her desire to give back to the community that helped shape her career.

    Three Actresses, One Icon

    Casting Dolly at Different Stages of Life

    Dolly Parton
    Credit: Instagram/dollymusical

    One of the biggest challenges of this production is portraying Parton’s life in a way that feels authentic. Given her long and eventful career, it was clear that a single actress couldn’t capture everything.

    That’s why the production will feature three different actresses playing Dolly at various stages of her life.

    “I’ve lived so many lives. Look at the age I am now, I started young!” she said. “We couldn’t very well just have one Dolly. There are so many songs, we had to divide it up. I wish I had three of me in real life!”

    This casting choice allows the musical to explore Parton’s childhood, rise to fame, and legendary career in greater depth. It also ensures that different aspects of her personality and artistry are represented in a way that resonates with audiences.

    A Special Song That Ties It All Together

    While the musical will feature a mix of new and classic Dolly Parton songs, one brand-new track holds a particularly special meaning for her.

    The song, titled “I Wouldn’t Be Here, If You Hadn’t Been There,” serves as a recurring theme throughout the show.

    According to Parton, the song is a tribute to the people who have played a significant role in her life, including family, friends, and mentors.

    “It talks about all the people that have been in my life, but also reference to God, as well,” she said. “We end the show basically with that—it’s a theme that runs throughout. I felt very inspired to write it.”

    This heartfelt anthem ties into one of Parton’s core beliefs: that success is never achieved alone. She has always been vocal about her faith, gratitude, and the importance of community, and this song beautifully reflects those values.

    Recreating Dolly’s Iconic Wardrobe

    No Dolly Parton musical would be complete without her glamorous and instantly recognizable fashion. From sparkly gowns to signature blonde wigs, her style is an essential part of her persona.

    To ensure authenticity, the production has enlisted Steve Summers, a longtime costume designer who has worked with Parton for years. Together, they are recreating decades of iconic looks for the actresses playing Dolly.

    “Actually, there was a lot of discussion about that because I’ve worn so many things throughout my career,” Parton explained. Fans can expect dazzling outfits that reflect her evolution from a small-town girl to a global superstar.

    When and Where to See the Musical

    For those eager to experience this one-of-a-kind show, here are the key details:

    • Preview performances begin on July 18, 2025
    • The official premiere is on August 8, 2025
    • Location: Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville, Tennessee

    Tickets and additional information can be found at dollymusical.com.

    Dolly Parton’s Top 5 Hits

    Song TitleRelease YearNotable Achievements
    Jolene1973One of Parton’s most iconic songs, known for its storytelling and emotional depth. It remains a fan favorite and has been covered by numerous artists.
    I Will Always Love You1974It was a heartfelt ballad that became a major hit and was later made even more famous by Whitney Houston’s cover. Parton’s original version topped the charts and is a classic love song.
    9 to 51980A catchy anthem for the working woman, this song was a major hit and became the title track for the film of the same name. It also reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
    Here You Come Again1977It marked a significant crossover hit for Parton, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song earned her widespread recognition in pop music.
    Coat of Many Colors1971A deeply personal song that reflects Parton’s childhood. It’s one of her most beloved tracks, showcasing her storytelling ability and emotional depth.
    The table enlists Dolly Parton’s top 5 songs

    Conclusion

    • Parton’s signature style meets the magic of musical theater.
    • The use of multiple actresses allows for a richer storytelling experience.
    • Fans will hear fresh songs that capture the essence of her journey.
    • The show will feature dazzling recreations of her most iconic looks.
    • With Parton involved in every step, the musical will stay true to her story.
    The video covers news about Dolly Parton’s new musical

    Other Articles

    Was this helpful?
    Thumbs UP Thumbs Down
    Prev Next
    Share this post

    Send feedback to NashvilleGab

    Close Feedback Form



      We appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback about this page with us.

      Whether it's praise for something good, or ideas to improve something that isn't quite right, we're excited to hear from you.