Dolly Parton has confirmed that a musical about her life, Dolly: A True Original Musical, will open on Broadway this winter following a sold-out run in Nashville. The production begins previews at New York's St James Theatre on 7 December and officially opens on 19 January, the country star's 81st birthday, marking a significant milestone in her six-decade career.

Parton, who has sold more than 100m albums worldwide, said the show would be "true in every sense of the word", telling her real story in her own words rather than focusing on "sparkle and shine". Directed by Bartlett Sher, it features signature hits such as I Will Always Love You, Jolene, Coat of Many Colors and 9 to 5, alongside newly written songs. Tickets go on general sale from 10 July, with early access for fans.