Dolly Parton’s Final Message to Her Broadway Team: “You’ve Got to Keep Going!”
Dolly Parton left her Broadway team with a powerful message just 10 days before her death. The country music legend wanted to make sure the musical about her life would continue, even if she could not be there to see it reach the stage.
During Variety’s Business of Broadway event, producer Adam Speers recalled his final conversation with Parton. He said she was determined to see DOLLY: A True Original Musical make its way to Broadway.
Her message was clear: “You’ve got to keep going! This is the show that I want to be on Broadway!”
Dolly Parton Wanted Her Life Story on Broadway
Parton was deeply involved in developing the musical, which tells the story of her journey from the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee to international stardom.
The production features many of her best-known songs, including “Jolene,” “I Will Always Love You,” and “Coat of Many Colors.” It also includes new music written specifically for the show.
Director Bartlett Sher said Parton continued working closely with the creative team until the final months of her life. She regularly shared ideas, worked with the cast, and helped shape the production.
Speers also explained that he and co-writer Maria S. Schlatter spoke with Parton frequently to make sure the musical reflected her vision.
Cast Members Remember Dolly’s Personal Touch
Actress Carrie St. Louis, who portrays Parton at one stage of her life, recalled how involved the singer was during rehearsals.
According to St. Louis, Parton often arrived early and stayed late. She made time to speak with the actors individually and even joined them when they played music during breaks.
Her kindness and encouragement left a lasting impression on the cast.
Director Sher also revealed that Parton wrote a new song called “Mountain Girl” for the production. He described songwriting as part of her daily routine, explaining that she often wrote in the morning and shared her new material with her team.
When Will Dolly Parton’s Broadway Musical Open?
DOLLY: A True Original Musical is scheduled to begin previews at New York’s St. James Theatre on December 7, 2026. Its official opening is planned for January 19, 2027, which would have been Parton’s 81st birthday.
The production will feature Katie Rose Clarke, Carrie St. Louis, and Norah Nunes portraying Parton at different stages of her life.
Although Parton will not be there to see the show open, the production is moving forward in accordance with her wishes.
Her final message to the team reflects the determination that shaped her extraordinary career. For those bringing her story to Broadway, the task now is to carry that vision forward and celebrate the music and life of a country music icon.
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