Broadway to Open Dolly Musical on January 19
The musical Dolly: A True Original Musical will hold its opening night in New York this January.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Children’s Theater
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The Broadway musical Dolly: A True Original Musical is set for its official opening night in New York on January 19, 2027. Eleven-year-old Texas performer Norah Nunes will star as the character Little Dolly in the production.
Why it matters
The upcoming production arrives following the death of Dolly Parton, who passed away in August 2026 at the age of 80. The musical features Nunes, who was cast in the show after having previously spent time with Parton.
Norah Nunes is an 11-year-old performer who began her career at age 7. The show follows the death of Dolly Parton, who died at 80 years old in August 2026.
The players
Norah Nunes
An 11-year-old performer from Texas who portrays the character Little Dolly.
Cameron Richardson
A vocal coach based in Tetney and the head of musical theatre at Trinity College, Cambridge University.
The details
Vocal coach Cameron Richardson, who leads musical theatre at Trinity College, Cambridge, provided coaching to prepare Nunes for the role. Richardson has also been invited to attend the gala opening event in New York.
Timeline
Dolly Parton died in August 2026.
Cameron Richardson performs in London during December 2026.
The musical Dolly: A True Original Musical opens on January 19, 2027.
Industry Dynamics
This production follows the 2026 death of Dolly Parton and marks a significant tribute within the Broadway ecosystem. The casting of a young talent reflects broader trends of centering youth performers in major musical revivals.
Theatergoers planning to attend the gala opening on January 19 will be able to see the new production in the city. The production highlights the career of young performer Norah Nunes for those interested in upcoming Broadway talent.
The takeaway
The production highlights the enduring influence of Dolly Parton through a new generation of performers. Families interested in musical theater can look forward to this upcoming New York opening as a centerpiece of the winter season.
Further reading
Learn more about local productions at New York City Children’s Theater.
Source note: This article includes information reported by LincolnshireWorld.
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