Dolly Parton's upcoming "Dolly: An Original Musical" has narrowed down its search for the lead role, with 15 talented performers selected for in-person auditions in New York City.

The finalists include:

• Kathryn Adeline (New York City)
• Peri Barnhill (New York City)
• Elyse Bell (New York City)
• Alberta Brown (Halifax, Canada)
• Haley Brown (Los Angeles)
• Kylee Hennes (Richfield, Wisconsin)
• Annelise Laakko (New York City)
• Tasha Lefler (Newport, Tennessee)
• Solo Lowit (Milton, Georgia)
• Kindred Moore (New York City)
• Norah Nunes (Houston, Texas)
• Kelly O'Brien (Aldbury, Tring, UK)
• Tricia Paoluccio (California)
• Cecilia Petrush (New York City)
• Madeline Powell (New York City)

The musical will debut at Nashville's Fisher Center for the Performing Arts this summer, running from July 18 to August 17, before moving to Broadway in 2026. Tickets start at $40.

Parton herself has written new songs for the production while incorporating her classic hits. Tony-winner Bartlett Sher will direct the musical, produced by Parton, Danny Nozell, ATG Productions, and Gavin Kalin Productions.

"I've written many original songs for the show and included all your favorites 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," says Parton.

Additional casting and creative team announcements are expected in the coming weeks.

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