Dolly Parton’s theme park, Dollywood, will remain open today, saying ‘the show must go on’, following her death yesterday.
Dolly’s nephew announced on her official Instagram account on Tuesday that the country music legend and philanthropist had died, aged 80.
The theme park, in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, confirmed it will open as scheduled today, and said it will release plans for an official memorial to honour Dolly in the near future.
Dollywood said on its website: “With heavy hearts, the Dollywood family mourns the passing of our beloved Dreamer-in-Chief, Dolly Parton. Everyone at Dollywood shares the sorrow of countless people around the world touched by Dolly’s warmth, wisdom and generous spirit.
“Dolly’s heartfelt wish was that Dollywood always remain a place of joy, hope and togetherness – a space where families and friends could honour her memory, not with silence, but with laughter, music and shared dreams.
“Dollywood will be open Wednesday as Dolly wanted, always reminding everyone with her signature sparkle – ‘the show must go on’. Together, we honour her by carrying forward her message of love, perseverance, and hope.”
Dollywood Parks & Resorts President Eugene Naughton said: “The greatest privilege of my life has been helping Dolly bring her dreams to life at Dollywood.
“Dolly’s heart was as vast as the mountains she cherished, and her compassion knew no bounds. She inspired generations to dream boldly and love deeply. While we grieve her loss, we are honoured and committed to carry her light forward. Her legacy will continue to shine in every melody sung, every smile shared and every dream kindled within these gates.”
Dollywood asked people who wanted to remember Dolly to donate to her charity, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
