Disney's 1989 TV Film "Polly" is Being Adapted into a Musical

The original film explores the story of a young orphan, adopted by her rich aunt, as she contends with the realities of segregation in 1950s Alabama.

Disney’s 1989 TV movie Polly is set to be the inspiration for a brand new Broadway-bound musical.

What’s Happening:

  • TheatreMania is reporting that the Disney TV movie Polly is being adapted into a stage musical.
  •  Producer Brian Anthony Moreland announced the development of Polly: The Musical earlier this week, which is set to see the original film’s director and choreographer Debbie Allen return for the new project.
  • Allen, who is a two-time Tony nominee, will direct and choreograph the stage production.
  • Lena Waithe and Michael Benjamin Washington are set to write the book, with Siedah Garret and Joriah Kwamé writing music and lyrics.
  • No timeline for the project has been announced at this time, but the production is intended to head to Broadway.
  • Polly explores the story of an optimistic orphan in 1950s Alabama who has to learn how to deal with the conflict surrounding segregation in a small town.
  • The original film stars Keshia Knight Pulliam as Polly and Phylicia Rashad as Aunt Polly.

Musical Magic:

  • Disney Cruise Line and Disney Live Entertainment are currently gearing up to launch a new musical adventure aboard the Disney Destiny.
  • Disney Hercules is set to bring the mythical magic of the hit 1997 animated film to life in a new Broadway-style production.
  • The production is set to make its debut in November 2025, which will include impressive puppets and effects to bring the fan-favorite tale to life.
  • You can read our latest update on Disney Hercules here.

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Maxon Faber
Based in Los Angeles, California, Maxon is roller coaster and musical theatre nerd. His favorite dinosaur is the parasaurolophus, specifically the one in Jurassic World: The Ride.