"It was always my dream to be on the Opry," Parton said in a statement last November. "I actually got to sing on the Grand Ole Opry when I was about 10 years old. I officially became a member back in 1969 and I cannot believe next year I will celebrate 50 proud years of being a member of the Grand Ole Opry! They call it the 'Mother Church' because the old Ryman was a church, but it's sacred to me, wherever it goes – the church of my heart. For me, the Opry is like the song 'New York, New York' – if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere. I am excited to be coming back home to celebrate 50 years of membership!"
Credit: Kevin Winter
Credit: Kevin Winter
Parton made her Opry debut at age 13, performing with her uncle, Bill Owens.
Events for the celebration, according to the Opry, are below:
- Oct. 10: Opry Country Classics featuring performances of No. 1 Dolly hits.
- Oct. 11: Friday Night Opry: Dolly's Mountain Soul: Bluegrass, Americana & Roots Music honor Dolly.
- Oct. 12: Dolly Parton's 50th Grand Ole Opry Anniversary Celebration, featuring Dolly Parton and others.
Artists for the week will be announced at a later date.
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