New York: Dolly Parton will take the story of her life to Broadway in a musical in 2026, the Country music legend has announced.

In addition to co-producing Hello, I’m Dolly – An Original Musical, Parton is also writing new music for the production that will also include her hits.

“Hello, I’m Dolly, and I lived my whole life to see this show on stage,” she said in a statement.

“I’ve written many original songs for the show and included all your favourites in it as well. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll clap, you’ll stomp, it truly is a Grand Ol’ Opera. Pun and fun intended. Don’t miss it!”

Hello, I’m Dolly is the name of the first studio album that Parton released in 1967.

She is working on the story with Maria Schlatter, who wrote the script for Parton’s 2020 Netflix Christmas special, Christmas on the Square.

“I first had the pleasure of working with Dolly Parton in 2019 when she trusted us to develop a new version of her musical 9 to 5 for London’s West End,” said co-producer Adam Speers.

“I had always heard she wanted to do a musical based on her life, so when she asked if I would be interested in producing it, I was bowled over.

“As the world knows, Dolly is a magical blend of talent, hard work, intelligence, charm, wit, and a gigantically big heart. I’m thrilled we’re going to bring her inspiring story to Broadway.”

Although Parton, 78, has been on stage for decades, this will be the first autobiographical musical.