Global music icon Dolly Parton has revealed that her life story will be brought to the stage this summer in the form of a new musical, Dolly: An Original Musical. The production will debut with a four-week limited engagement at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, from July 18 through August 17, 2025. Following its premiere, the musical is slated to arrive on Broadway in 2026.
The musical promises a blend of Parton’s greatest hits and fresh songs written specifically for the production. Tickets, starting at just $40, are now available at www.dollymusical.com or through the Fisher Center Box Office at 615-460-2255.
Parton Shares Heartfelt Connection to Nashville
Dolly Parton shared her enthusiasm for debuting the musical in the heart of Music City: “I am Tennessee born and raised, and Nashville has been my musical home for over 60 years. 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.”
This debut marks a significant milestone for the Fisher Center, as it will be the first time the venue hosts the world premiere of a major new musical featuring a professional cast and creative team.
Creative Powerhouses Behind the Production
The musical is helmed by Tony Award®-winning director Bartlett Sher, with a book co-written by Parton and Emmy-winning writer Maria S. Schlatter. The production is brought to life by producers Parton, Danny Nozell, ATG Productions, and Gavin Kalin Productions, with casting by Jim Carnahan and Carrie Gardner.
Further details, including casting announcements and additional creative team members, are expected in the coming weeks.
Dolly U: A Groundbreaking Educational Collaboration
In a groundbreaking partnership, Parton and Belmont University announced the creation of “Dolly U,” an immersive educational initiative that will involve students in the development of the musical. This program offers hands-on opportunities in areas such as production, marketing, brand partnerships, and merchandising, all while earning course credits.
As part of Dolly U, students have already contributed to the national casting search, “The Search for Dolly,” which offered aspiring talents the chance to audition for roles in the new musical. The results of this search will be announced soon.
More About Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton is widely recognized as one of the most honored and beloved figures in music history. With 26 #1 Billboard country hits and 27 RIAA-certified gold, platinum, and multi-platinum awards, her influence spans decades. Her recent album Rockstar made history by earning her six Billboard #1 spots and achieving her highest debut on the Billboard 200 chart.
Beyond music, Parton’s philanthropic efforts through her Imagination Library have resulted in the donation of over 255 million books to children around the world. Her creative ventures also include best-selling books, film projects, and innovative collaborations.
Get Your Tickets Now
Fans eager to witness the world premiere of Dolly: An Original Musical can secure their tickets today at www.dollymusical.com. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this remarkable story brought to life in Nashville—a fitting tribute to a living legend.
