Dolly Is Back: Country music icon Dolly Parton announces “Dolly: An Original Musical,” set to premiere at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in summer 2025. The production, featuring new songs alongside classic hits, will move to Broadway in 2026.
Educational Innovation Launches: Belmont University introduces ‘Dolly U,’ an unprecedented collaboration offering students hands-on experience through four specialized courses in Spring 2025. The program integrates academic study with practical entertainment industry experience.
Creative Team Forms: The musical pairs Parton with Emmy-winning writer Maria S. Schlatte, known for Netflix’s “Christmas on the Square.” Production leadership includes Adam Speers for ATG Productions and Danny Nozell for CTK Enterprises.
Curriculum Expands: ‘Dolly U’ courses cover:
- Parton’s life and career through lectures and interviews
- Entertainment property consumer products
- Integrated marketing communications
- Partnership marketing and business development
Vision Shared: “It’s a Grand Ol’ Opera where you’ll laugh, cry, clap, and stomp,” Parton explains of the production, which chronicles her journey from Tennessee mountains to global stardom.
