Dolly Parton launches search for actors to play her in a new Broadway musical
Hello, paging for Dolly!
Country legend Dolly Parton, 78, is on the hunt for actors to play her in a new Broadway show about her life. In a video shared Thursday, Parton announced she and the production team have embarked on a nationwide search for some Dollys to bring her story to the stage.
"As you may have heard, my life story is coming to Broadway in a new show called 'Dolly: An Original Musical.' And now, I'm announcing the search for Dolly," Parton said. "Now, whether you're chasing your dreams from a small town or you've spent years performing on stages across the country, I want to give you the chance to help me bring my story to Broadway — and maybe even play me!"
According to a press release, the musical is "searching for performers of all ages to portray Parton at different stages of her incredible life." Actors can be either "an experienced theater professional or an undiscovered gem with that little special something," Parton said — as long as they "can capture the spirit of my journey."
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee called the show "a celebration of my music, my life and all the amazing people who've been with me along the way."
When the Dollywood founder announced the musical at CMA Fest over the summer, she revealed a Broadway debut was planned for 2026. The Bartlett Sher-directed project was originally called "Hello, I'm Dolly" but has since been renamed to "Dolly: An Original Musical."
The score will be a mix of Parton's biggest hits and new tracks written exclusively for the show.
How to audition for the Dolly Parton musical
Dolly and non-Dolly performers alike should upload a one-minute video of themselves singing one of Parton's songs to social media and use the hashtag #SearchForDolly. An application through dollymusical.com must also be submitted.
For actors who are under 18 years old, their parent or guardian can upload the video and, in the online application, grant permission for the submission on the minor's behalf.
Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. EST on Jan. 12, 2025. After the casting team reviews the candidates, they will invite a selection of finalists for all potential roles to audition in person in New York City.
More information, as well as terms and conditions, are found at dollymusical.com.