A New York Times article headline recently proclaimed: “Is There Anything We Can All Agree On? Yes. Dolly Parton.” Denver metro locals will have a chance to show their love for the iconic country music superstar on January 26, at Dolly Day Denver.
This inaugural event, presented by Two Doors Down Productions, comes to the Oriental Theater just in time to celebrate Dolly’s 74th birthday. From 3 to 6 p.m., families can experience line dancing lessons taught by Laurie Schlekeway-Burkhardt, drag queen storytime with Shirley Delta Blow, and a green screen photo station at which kids can try out different Dolly-themed backgrounds. Kids also can contribute their own positive messages to the Garden of Goodness wall, choose a glittery design at the Face Sparkle table, create poetry on the spot with Poetry Crow, and get a caricature of themselves with a Dolly-themed twist. Grilled cheese sandwiches and other yummy treats will be served, alongside other fun and fashionable vendors.
Families can come dressed in Dolly Parton attire to participate in a Guinness World Record attempt for the largest gathering of people dressed like Dolly Parton. Arrive no later than 4:45 p.m. for the official count and bring a photo of Dolly on which your costume is based. Watch the video for more details.
Can’t bring the family? Attend the adults-only variety show from 7 to 9:30 p.m., featuring performances by Lannie Garrett, Orchid Mei, Alexis Scissorlegs, Shirley Delta Blow, DJ Ape, Burning Loins, Staza Stone, and others.
All profits will benefit the Imagination Library of Denver—the nonprofit organization founded by Dolly Parton—which mails free books to children up to age five. Currently, Imagination Library of Denver (ILD) serves local kids in four different zip codes. “A 2018 study shows that 40 percent of Colorado’s students aren’t reading on grade-level at the end of third grade,” says Sara Randall, director of ILD. “We want to change that by ensuring each child has their very own library with high-quality, age-appropriate books to help them start their educational journey off strong.”
Need to Know: Family activities for Dolly Day Denver are at the Oriental Theater, January 26 from 3 to 6 p.m. Adults-only variety show from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased in advance on the website or at the door. $15 for all-ages events (3 p.m.); children age five and under are free. $30 for day and evening events (21+); $20 for evening show only (7 p.m.)
