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Dollywood reopens day after Dolly Parton’s death as park vows to honour star’s final wish: 'Show must go on!'
Home Alone and Rocky Horror Picture Show star Tim Curry dies aged 80
TL;DR
- Dollywood theme park reopened today, the day after the death of its founder, Dolly Parton.
- The park's closure was part of its regular schedule, but it reopened on Wednesday as per Ms. Parton's wishes.
- The company stated that Dollywood will operate in her spirit, with the message 'the show must go on.'
- Ms. Parton was described as the park's 'beloved Dreamer-in-Chief,' and her desire was for the park to remain a place of joy.
- The Dollywood website experienced a temporary shutdown on Tuesday due to exceptionally high visitor volume following the announcement of Ms. Parton's death.
- Upon restoration, the website displayed a photograph of Ms. Parton with the words 'I will always love you.'
- Eugene Naughton, president of Dollywood Parks & Resorts, paid tribute to Ms. Parton, emphasizing her vast heart and compassion.
- Ms. Parton had been experiencing health issues recently, preventing her from attending the launch of a new roller coaster.
- She acquired a stake in the park, then known as Silver Dollar City Tennessee, in 1986.
- The 150-acre destination in Pigeon Forge is Tennessee's largest ticketed tourist attraction.
- Beyond music, Ms. Parton was known for her philanthropic work, particularly the Imagination Library program.
- Fans are encouraged to donate to the Imagination Library in her memory.
- Ms. Parton's empire in Pigeon Forge also includes Dolly Parton's Stampede dinner theatre, Splash Country waterpark, and Dream More Resort and Spa.
- Fans shared condolences and fond memories on Dollywood's Instagram post.