Jenna Bush Hager Auditions for Role in Dolly Parton‘s New Broadway Musical: ‘I Just Want a Little Small Part’
Jenna Bush Hager is stepping out of the studio and onto the stage! The Today co-host and author, who already juggles a successful career as a journalist, mother of three, and production company head, is now setting her sights on a new and exciting challenge: Broadway.
During the December 9 episode of Today with Hoda & Jenna, Hager revealed that she’s ready to take a leap into the world of musical theater — and she’s got her eye on a very special role in Dolly Parton’s highly anticipated biographical Broadway musical. While discussing the nationwide search for fresh talent to bring the country icon’s life story to the stage, Hager couldn’t resist pitching herself for a part.
“Dolly. Please?” Hager, 43, pleaded with a grin. “I just want a little small part!”
Her co-host, Hoda Kotb, 60, quickly joined in, supporting Hager’s Broadway aspirations. “It would be a dream, Dolly, if my friend Jenna Bush Hager might have a shot at something,” Kotb said, laughing. “All she wants is to be an extra. Just in the back, having coffee.”
But Hager had bigger ideas — sort of. “Or what about part of the chorus? What about a part of the ensemble?” she suggested, only for Kotb to shoot her down with a playful “no.”
Never one to shy away from a challenge, Hager went all in for her Broadway audition. She recorded her own audition video, taking on one of Dolly Parton’s most iconic hits, “Jolene,” to show her commitment to the role.
“I have prepared for you, miss Dolly Parton, the lyrics to ‘Jolene,'” Hager said in the video, admitting her voice might be a little off-key. But that didn’t stop her from launching into the song, channeling Dolly in her own unique way.
“Just do it,” Kotb, playing the role of the supportive “stage mom,” urged. “Just sell it!”
For the full effect, Hager even donned a curly, bleach-blonde wig to try to emulate Parton’s signature look — though, as she joked, “It was the best we could do on short notice.” Still, her enthusiasm was palpable, and she clearly had fun with the playful audition.
The upcoming musical, Dolly: An Original Musical (previously titled Hello, I’m Dolly), will bring the legendary country singer’s story to the stage. Featuring both classic hits and new songs written specifically for the show, the production will follow Parton’s incredible journey from humble beginnings to worldwide stardom.
Dolly herself made the exciting announcement of an open casting call for the musical earlier this month, inviting talented performers to apply for the opportunity of a lifetime. In a heartfelt video shared on social media, Parton, 78, called for individuals who could capture the essence of her life and career.
“I want to give you the chance to help me bring my story to Broadway — and maybe even play me!” she said. “This show is a celebration of my music, my life, and all the amazing people who’ve been with me along the way. We’re looking for talented performers who can capture the spirit of my journey, whether you’re an experienced theater professional or an undiscovered gem with that little special something.”
The casting call has sparked a flurry of audition videos on social media, with hopeful performers sharing their submissions under the hashtag #SearchForDolly. Those looking to join the cast must submit an application through the musical’s official website by January 12, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EST.
After reviewing the submissions, the show will invite selected applicants to New York City for a formal audition process, where they’ll have the chance to meet with the creative team and showcase their talents.
For now, Hager’s playful audition may just be a fun moment on Today, but who knows? With Dolly’s musical celebrating all kinds of talent, maybe there’s room for a small part — or a coffee break — for Hager on Broadway.
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