The Dolly Show comes to Worthing and Crawley

‍

The UK’s number one Dolly Parton tribute show is heading around the nation in 2025. As seen on TV and radio, The Dolly Show  is the work of acclaimed West End star, Kelly O’Brien, who offers a pitch perfect version of the country music legend.

‍

The only Dolly Parton impersonator endorsed by The Parton family. The Australian-born Kelly is a world-class entertainer, with stunning vocal and flawless comic timing. She brilliantly captures the voice, verve and voluptuousness of the little lady from Tennessee. From the 22-inch waist to the 32G bust, she captivates audiences around the world with Dolly's famous mountain soprano. It’s like Pigeon Forge’s most famous daughter is right there in the room with you.

‍

Accompanied by some of the UK’s  finest musicians, Kelly and her band will be bringing hits like 9 To 5, Jolene, Islands In The Stream and I Will Always Love You to venues across the country, including Worthing’s The Factory Live on Fri 17 Jan and Crawley’s The Hawth on Fri 21 Feb. 

‍

Ahead of this eagerly awaited tour, we caught up with Kelly to find more about recreating the looks and sounds of this global superstar.

‍

What was the inspiration for the show? What made you set out on this incredible journey?

‍

I started listening to Dolly Parton when I was very young, so I've been a lifelong fan. I fell into theatre and comedy in my 20s and would emulate different female stars. Dolly was my favourite since her and I are both 5ft tall and I'd been singing country music for so long, so imitating her was an easy fit.

‍

You’ve got some big shoes to fill. How do you go about creating a show which pays adequate homage to such a massive icon without it seeming cheap or camp?

‍

I feel as though I am as authentic as Dolly. It's my 18th year performing as the legend and I am still learning. In fact, I am endorsed by the Parton family. I think I capture her talents, musical prowess and humility quite well (well that's what I've been told!)

‍

You’ve been acknowledged as the best in the business. What do you think makes you stand out from the pack? 

‍

I work at my craft everyday. Without fail. I learn new songs, how to play new instruments, and I have new and exciting costumes being made all the time. I pretty much dedicate my life to my work. I am also really disciplined, so I stick to a ketogenic diet (no carbs or sugar) to retain her tiny frame. This is serious work for me.

‍

Did you find out anything new about Dolly, or yourself, since starting it all? 

‍

Just how incredible Dolly Parton really is. The work she does in the world, the millions of free books she has given away to children, the way she inspires people. I feel similar - not that I can give millions away, but I can change peoples lives (even if it's just for a few hours whilst they are sitting in my audience.)

‍

Has Dolly or her team seen the show? She seems to have a warm and open attitude towards tribute acts. 

‍

I met Dolly in 2011 but she hasn't seen my show unfortunately. And yes, she has huge admiration for tribute acts and impersonators.

‍

There’s been some brilliant Dolly Parton quotes over the years. Do you have a favourite? 

‍

Yes, I love these two...  'Storms make trees take deeper roots' and 'It costs a lot of money to look this cheap!'

‍

What do you hope audiences will take away from the show? 

‍

I hope they feel as though they've spent a night with Dolly Parton. That their lives are richer and fuller by listening to her music, antidotes on life and humble stories. That they connect not only with the show, but their loved ones who are sitting next to them. It's not only a celebration of Dolly but a celebration of life and love.

‍

Kelly O’Brien brings The Dolly Show to Worthing’s The Factory Live on Fri 17 Jan and Crawley’s The Hawth on Fri 21 Feb 2025.

‍

www.thedollyshow.com

www.thefactorylive.co.uk

www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/the-hawth