Dolly Parton has confirmed a major date for her upcoming Broadway musical, “DOLLY: A True Original Musical.” The country music icon shared the update in a personal video posted to Instagram, giving fans a closer look at when the production will officially begin its Broadway run.
The musical will begin preview performances on Monday, December 7, 2026, at the St. James Theatre in New York City. The official opening night is set for Tuesday, January 19, 2027, which will also be Parton’s 81st birthday.
The musical’s official Instagram account shared the announcement with the caption, “Broadway, the Dolly way. See you soon, New York City!”
Parton appeared in the video wearing a sheer black top with matching pants. She answered fan questions about the production and addressed whether she plans to attend performances after opening night.
Parton Plans to Attend
View this post on Instagram A post shared by DOLLY: A True Original Musical (@dollymusical)
Parton said she expects to spend as much time in New York as possible while the show develops. She explained that she had been in Nashville almost every day while the production was being created there, so her schedule in New York may look different.
“I will be there as much as I can be,” Parton said.
She also confirmed that she plans to attend the opening night performance, adding, “Good Lord willing and the creek don’t rise, I will definitely be there on the opening night.”
The expression means she intends to follow through unless an unexpected problem prevents it. Parton also said she expects to attend some of the preview performances.
What the Musical Will Feature
“DOLLY: A True Original Musical” will draw from Parton’s life and career. According to The New York Times, Parton will not perform as a cast member. Instead, the production will tell her story through her music and newly written material.
The show is expected to include several of her best-known songs, including:
“I Will Always Love You”
“Jolene”
“Coat of Many Colors”
“9 to 5”
Parton has also written new songs specifically for the Broadway production.
In a statement to Deadline, Parton described her life as a musical and called it “a grand ole opera.” She added that she hopes audiences enjoy watching the story as much as she has enjoyed living it.
Fans React to the Announcement
The announcement quickly drew reactions from fans on Instagram. One commenter wrote, “We love you Dolly!” Another said, “Can’t wait to see the show.” A third fan shared excitement about the production, while another encouraged Parton to take care of herself.
The response reflects the strong interest surrounding the Broadway project and its connection to Parton’s long career in music and entertainment.
With previews scheduled for December 2026 and opening night planned for January 2027, “DOLLY: A True Original Musical” will soon bring Parton’s songs and personal story to a Broadway stage. The January 19 opening also gives the production a personal connection to Parton, as the date falls on her 81st birthday.
The combination of familiar songs, new material and stories from Parton’s life will form the basis of the Broadway production.
Dolly Parton’s Broadway musical now has a clear schedule, with previews beginning December 7, 2026, and the official opening set for January 19, 2027. Parton will not appear as a performer, but her music, experiences and newly written songs will shape “DOLLY: A True Original Musical.”
