From inspiring traditional dance to thrilling strength and agility, Rhythm of the Dance, along with Timber!, headline the 15th anniversary of Dollywood’s Festival of Nations and provide guests an international experience which transports them around the world. Dolly said,
“I’ve been all over this big world, and as an entertainer, I love nothing more than to see truly talented performers from every corner of the globe traveling to Dollywood to perform during my Festival of Nations. I can’t wait to share these fascinating treasures with the families at Dollywood to celebrate the kick off of our 30th anniversary season!”
Countries from around the globe are represented in this cultural celebration through diverse entertainment showcases, exotic cuisine and authentic craftsmanship. Exciting traditional displays give park guests a fascinating look into cultures worldwide.
Returning to help Dollywood celebrate 30 years of entertainment, as well as the 15th annual Festival of Nations, is the visually stunning show, Rhythm of the Dance. Showcasing traditional Irish dance and music with state-of-the-art technology, Rhythm of the Dance marries the contemporary and the ancient to present a thrilling and rich performance which highlights the journey of Irish Celts through history.
At the annual media event, Dolly shared the big announcement of her new website along with more exciting things coming to Dollywood during the park’s 30th season. When the floor was opened up for questions, longtime fan and administrator of Dollymania.net, Duane Gordon asked Dolly about the online countdown that had been counting down for the past several weeks on DollyParton.com. Dolly explained the historical nature of the site and how it brings all her favorite things together. She said,
“It’s kind of like a museum, kind of like a history of my life and music. It’s all about our businesses and my personal stuff.”
In addition to the new DollyParton.com announcement, the event featured new things coming to Dollywood, including the return of a summer concert series to benefit the Imagination Library. The goal is to raise $1 million for the global book gifting organization. Dolly will open the series with four performances on August 8-9. Kenny Rogers will close the series and more artists will be announced at a later date.
Dolly updated fans on her new production company, Dixie Pixie Productions. She said her new NBC movie series will begin with a Christmas movie based on her song, "Coat of Many Colors." The television movie is set to air Christmas of 2015.
The legendary entertainer fielded questions about the opening of Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort set for later this year. The resort will offer more ways for families to enjoy Dollywood and the Great Smoky Mountains.
Several performers from Dollywood’s Festival of Nations were showcased at the event. The GRAMMY award-winning Mariachi Divas opened, followed by the Invaders Steel Orchestra who wowed the crowd with a version of Dolly’s "9 to 5."
LiveStream recording of Dolly Parton's appearance.
Update: Additional showtime added to "Rock the Smokies"
Due to an overwhelming response, Dollywood added a second showtime at 7 p.m. to the festival schedule.
Now there’s one more chance to see Third Day and For King & Country on stage at Dollywood! This one-day event provides the chance for both thrill rides and a rocking worship experience for one great price.
Rock the Smokies artists also include Sidewalk Prophets, About a Mile and Love & The Outcome.
Dollywood welcomed in the New Year with a special announcement, a brand new festival! Guests can now experience a rocking worship experience Dollywood-style as they "Rock the Smokies" during the day-long celebration, Sept. 5, 2015.
The new festival will bring Christian artists such as Third Day, For King & Country and many more to Dollywood for a powerful Christian rock experience. The festival provides time for both thrill rides and a Christian festival for one great price. There will even be VIP packages available to meet the bands and take pictures!
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort tops out, reaching another major milestone. During this traditional "Topping Out" construction celebration, the resort’s highest point was installed. Construction crews lowered the final element of Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort's three iconic spires. These spires completed the resort’s outside profile. This ceremony brought the resort one step closer to making Dolly’s dream a reality.
After hearing how much Dollywood guests loved Great American Summer's extended hours in 2013, the park extended the festival by a week to give more families additional time to experience it in 2014.
“Some of my favorite memories take me back to those warm summer evenings, stayin’ up late, watchin’ the lightnin’ bugs flutter around the hills,”
Dolly said. "Dolly’s Nights of Many Colors," the nightly fireworks show, creates more beautiful lights than Dolly could have ever dreamed!
