Nashville, TN — In a moment as glittery as Dolly’s rhinestones and as heartwarming as her lyrics, the creative team behind DOLLY: An Original Musical has officially revealed the three powerhouse performers set to portray Dolly Parton at different stages of her life. The announcement, made via the production’s social media channels and at a private press event in Nashville, sent waves of excitement through fans and theatergoers across the nation.

This much-anticipated musical, which will premiere this fall at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC), charts the legendary life of Dolly—from her humble beginnings in the Smoky Mountains to her meteoric rise as a global icon in country music, business, and philanthropy. With a story as rich and textured as her harmonies, the show promises to be as much a celebration as it is a revelation.

A Nationwide Search for a National Treasure

Back in January, producers launched the “Search for Dolly,” a national casting call that saw more than 4,000 hopefuls submit auditions—many donning blonde wigs and belting out classics like “Jolene” and “Coat of Many Colors.” The response was overwhelming.

From this talented pool, 15 finalists were flown to New York City for an intensive callback process that involved acting, singing, dancing—and yes, even yodeling. And now, two of those finalists have earned their place in the spotlight.

“Finding Dolly wasn’t about mimicry,” said casting director Lisa Jenkins. “We were looking for women who could embody her spirit, her humor, her resilience, and her light. And we found them.”

The Three Faces of Dolly

Portraying Dolly at different points in her journey are three actresses who each bring their own unique interpretation of the woman behind the legend:

Little Dolly (childhood): Annalise Baxter, a 12-year-old breakout from Knoxville, Tennessee, whose raw vocal power and Appalachian twang wowed the selection panel. Annalise captures the innocence and grit of Dolly’s early years in the mountains.

Young Dolly (teens to early stardom): Jasmine Stewart, one of the national search finalists, brings a fiery mix of determination and vulnerability. With roots in gospel and bluegrass, Jasmine mirrors the young Dolly’s ambition to be “bigger than life.”

Iconic Dolly (peak career): Mariah Reeves, a Broadway veteran known for her transformative performances, takes on the role of the mature Dolly with elegance, sass, and soul. “It’s not just playing Dolly,” she says. “It’s honoring every woman who ever dared to dream big.”

What Makes This Musical Special

Unlike biopics or tribute shows, DOLLY: An Original Musical dives deep into Dolly’s psyche. Written by Emmy-nominated screenwriter Lindy West, the musical is not simply a chronological tale but an emotional tapestry, interwoven with themes of family, sacrifice, faith, and fierce independence.

The score features over 25 songs—including beloved hits like “9 to 5,” “Here You Come Again,” and “I Will Always Love You”—along with several brand-new original songs co-written by Parton herself.

Director Michael Arden (Tony Award winner for Parade) said the show balances larger-than-life spectacle with deeply personal moments. “The world knows Dolly’s voice,” he said, “but this musical lets us hear her heart.”

Dolly Herself Weighs In

While Dolly Parton is not starring in the musical, she’s deeply involved as a creative consultant—and her fingerprints are everywhere.

“I’ve told my story a thousand times, but this show lets it shine in a new light,” Parton said in a video message shared during the casting reveal. “These women bring my journey to life with such honesty and fire. I couldn’t be prouder.”

What’s Next?

The premiere in Nashville is just the beginning. Producers are already eyeing a national tour in 2026, and possibly a Broadway run if the show receives the critical acclaim many anticipate.

In the meantime, more casting news—including supporting roles and ensemble members—is expected in June. Workshops and rehearsals begin this summer, with previews opening in late September.

For fans and theater lovers alike, the arrival of DOLLY marks not just the debut of a new musical, but a moment to reflect on one of America’s most beloved cultural figures.

As the final lyric in the show’s original number “Shine Like Dolly” goes:

“She wore rhinestones, but she was pure gold.”

And soon, a whole new generation will get to experience that gold live on stage.