The highly anticipated world premiere of DOLLY: A True Original Musical is now lighting up the stage at The Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville, running through August 31. As part of this one-of-a-kind production, Broadway star Carrie St. Louis steps into the role of a lifetime: portraying Dolly Parton during her early rise to fame.
We sat down with Carrie to talk about her experience bringing Dolly’s story to life, but to really get the full picture, you’ll want to watch the full interview. Her enthusiasm, emotion, and deep respect for Dolly are evident throughout the conversation.
Watch the Interview Now
A Legendary Story Told Like Never Before
With a legacy that includes over 100 million albums sold, a spot in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and a cultural footprint that spans generations, Dolly Parton hardly needs an introduction. But DOLLY: A True Original Musical offers a fresh perspective on the icon’s life, from her humble beginnings in East Tennessee to her breakthrough in Nashville and eventual superstardom.
Carrie is one of three actresses portraying Dolly at different stages of her life, taking on the role as Dolly ventures to Nashville and starts to chase her dreams. The production also stars Quinn Titcomb as young Dolly and Katie Rose Clarke as the older, world-renowned version of the star.
A Year in “Dolly Land”
Carrie shares how she’s spent a full year immersed in “Dolly land,” preparing through accent coaching, guitar lessons, and even yodeling, all to capture the essence of Dolly without turning it into impersonation. Her goal is to make it feel honest, lived-in, and full of heart.
She talks about the long audition process, how each workshop felt like an ongoing test, and the unforgettable moment she finally got the call. But the biggest takeaway from the interview isn’t just her hard work, it’s the joy she brings to the role, and the joy she says this musical delivers night after night.
Dolly’s Presence Onstage and Off
One of the most remarkable things Carrie reveals is Dolly’s level of involvement in the show. She’s not just a name on the poster. Dolly has been in rehearsals, fine-tuning scenes, and offering personal insights that have helped shape the musical. Carrie describes her as endlessly kind, humble, and generous, someone who makes everyone in the room feel important.
That generosity shows in the story itself, which includes rarely shared moments from Dolly’s life and relationships, including her bond with her husband and lifelong friends.
More Than Just a Musical
DOLLY: A True Original Musical isn’t just a jukebox show packed with hits like “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” and “I Will Always Love You,” although those are definitely there. It’s a heartfelt, inspiring tribute that leaves audiences feeling uplifted, and Carrie says that’s exactly what Dolly intended.
This production, premiering first in the city that launched Dolly’s career, is her gift to Nashville before the show heads to Broadway. And Carrie encourages everyone to be part of it.
Get Your Tickets
The show runs through August 31, 2025, at The Fisher Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are available at TheFisherCenter.com or in person at the Belmont Box Office (Mon–Fri, 9am–4:30pm).
Want to see what it really takes to become Dolly? Watch the full interview with Carrie St. Louis and hear in her own words what makes this musical and the woman behind it so extraordinary.
