Dolly Parton is teaming up with more students at Belmont University
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Dolly Parton speaks on stage at Belmont University. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images
Dolly Parton's one-of-a-kind partnership with Belmont University is expanding, giving more students hands-on experience in the music industry through explorations of her various projects.
Why it matters: Students participating in the Dolly U program have already helped to develop Parton's autobiographical musical. Now, new courses coming this fall will offer opportunities to work on market research and a behind-the-scenes documentary about the production.
State of play: Four courses will offer a window into Parton's world.
- Students will learn about documentary writing and editing in courses where they will develop a feature on the making of "Dolly: An Original Musical" using footage from Parton's management firm, CTK Enterprises.
- Others will study market research tied to the musical, which is opening later this year at Belmont before transferring to Broadway.
- Another course will focus on Parton's songwriting techniques.
Zoom in: Nine Belmont students were selected for paid fellowships that will embed them directly in the musical's production team for a semester as the crew prepares for the Broadway run.
What they're saying: "Building on the foundation laid this spring, the new fall curriculum continues to reflect Belmont's commitment to transformative, real-world learning that bridges classroom experience with industry practice," said Belmont administrator Sarah Cates, who oversees strategic initiatives and partnerships.
- "We're creating unparalleled opportunities for students to develop professional skills alongside one of music's most iconic figures as her impact continues to unfold on the Broadway stage."
What's next: Parton's musical will premiere at Belmont's Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, which is near International Market and Bongo Java.
- Performances begin July 18 and run through Aug. 17. Tickets are on sale now.
The intrigue: The Nashville run is essentially a trial period for the musical. The production team, including the Dolly U fellows, will use audience feedback to make adjustments.
- "If you see it in the first week, it's going to be different than if you see it in the second week because we're going to be making changes every day," Tony-winning director Bartlett Sher said previously.