Polly The Musical is in Development

Polly The Musical Summary

  • Show Status: In Development
  • Genre: Musical
  • Polly The Musical is 1 Hour and 40 Minutes long, including an intermission of 15 minutes
  • 8 Shows per week
  • Show Closes: Open ended

Optimistic orphan Polly transforms a segregated Southern town with kindness, joy, and determination, melting hearts and bridging divides through her unshakable belief in goodness.

What's Polly The Musical Like?

Polly the Musical is adapted from the heartwarming 1989 musical film of the same name, which in itself is adapted from the 1913 novel by Eleanor H. Porter, Pollyanna.

Set in 1950s Alabama with an all-Black cast, the story follows Polly Whittier, a bright and optimistic orphan who is sent to live with her wealthy and stern Aunt Polly Harrington. Despite arriving in a deeply segregated town resistant to change, Polly’s unwavering positivity and belief in the "glad game" quickly begin to affect those around her. 

Her infectious spirit brings together people from both sides of the racial and class divide, challenging prejudice and softening hardened hearts. Through a series of musical numbers and emotional moments, Polly helps the town heal from its past and moves it toward unity and hope. 

Is Polly The Musical Good for Kids?

This show is good for kids as it features:

  • Positive messages about kindness, optimism, and unity
  • Uplifting music and colorful performances
  • A child protagonist that kids can relate to
  • Age-appropriate themes, even when touching on serious issues like prejudice

While it does address racism and class divisions, these are handled gently and in a way that is accessible for children—especially with adult guidance for context. The show promotes empathy, resilience, and hope, making it a strong choice for family viewing.

Polly The Musical on Broadway Background

This stage adaptation of Polly brings the beloved 1989 Disney television movie Polly—itself a reimagining of Eleanor H. Porter’s novel Pollyanna—to life, set against the backdrop of 1950s Alabama. This show will make it debut on Broadway in 2026.

The production boasts a distinguished creative team:

  • Director and Choreographer: Two-time Tony Award nominee Debbie Allen, who also directed the original 1989 film
  • Book: Emmy Award winner Lena Waithe and Michael Benjamin Washington
  • Music and Lyrics: Grammy Award winner Siedah Garrett and Joriah Kwamé

Cast Members

Polly Whittier
Aunt Polly Harrington
Dr. Robert Shannon
Jimmy Bean
Nancy Palmer
George Dodds
Mrs. Conley

Producers

Brian Anthony Moreland

Production Credits

Director
Debbie Allen

Creative Team

Original Book
Lena Waithe and
Original Book
Michael Benjamin Washington
Music and Lyrics
Siedah Garrett
Music and Lyrics
Joriah Kwamé