Dolly appeared as herself in the made-for-television mini-series "Naomi & Wynonna: Love can Build a Bridge," the true life story of Naomi and Wynonna Judd. The mini-series which originally aired May 14-15, 1995, on NBC, tells the story of the Judds as single mother Naomi turned to music as a way to deal with her increasingly rebellious teen daughter Wynonna and follows them as they make the leap from singing at home through Nashville to national celebrity.
The series is narrated by Naomi’s second daughter Ashley Judd and features a short cameo appearance by Dolly. Variety’s review found Naomi and Wynonna to be, "above average for the genre."
Following the success of her Stampede in Pigeon Forge, TN, and Myrtle Beach, SC, Dolly Parton and her team of developers set their sights on Branson, MO. With about 40 other country theaters in Branson, Stampede would have some competition. In 1995, the doors opened for the first time.
While similar to the Stampede in Pigeon Forge and Myrtle Beach, the Branson location had its own unique attributes. The open air stables, where guests could view the 32 magnificent horses starring in the show, were extended and stretched from the parking area to the front doors. It was all part of the family experience intended for guests. Its saloon show in the Carriage Room featured unique performers—including a singing cowboy who rode his horse into the audience and a juggling comedian.
The main show at Dolly Parton's Stampede included some of the same top-notch trick riding, performing and comedy as the other locations, and of course, a four-course feast that would not leave you hungry.
Dolly unveiled Jukebox Junction, a new seven-acre section of Dollywood featuring a blast from the past. This $6 million 1950s themed area included the 1,000-seat Pines Theater, Red’s Diner and the Rockin’ Roadway. The Rockin’ Roadway is a ride featuring classic replica cars.
Entertainment included "Let the Good Times Roll," a tribute to rock 'n' roll. Jukebox Junction also included a variety of merchandise locations offering classic memorabilia and nostalgic items that completed the area.
The made-for-television movie about the late singer was nominated for two primetime Emmy Awards (cinematography and hairstyling). The movie which originally aired on CBS on, Jan. 22, 1995, depicts West’s childhood, the start of her career, her highest successes (in particular her duets with Kenny Rogers) and her fatal 1991 car crash.
"Heartsong," a film narrated by Dolly, debuted in the Heartsong Theatre, in 1994. It conveys Dolly’s fond memories and feelings for the Smoky Mountains. The film features the powerful story of her original song, "Heartsong." It was filmed in the park and at Dolly’s childhood home in East Tennessee. Dolly was so impressed with the finished theatre, that she said,
“I knew we would create an entertaining experience for the guests at Dollywood, but never guessed we would create such emotion.”
The Heartsong Theatre experience is a production of Jack Rouse Associates. It incorporates 70 mm film and specially created animation. The audience is wowed by a unique outdoor sensory experiences through the theatrical lighting and special effects, including the new, "nature round" sound.
