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Interview: Kelly O’Brien – The Other Dolly Parton Is Coming To Adelaide This Weekend

Australian-born singer and West End star Kelly O’Brien is flying into Adelaide this weekend to perform her critically acclaimed tribute to Dolly Parton

Australian-born singer and West End star Kelly O’Brien is flying into Adelaide this weekend to perform her critically acclaimed tribute to Dolly Parton, The Dolly Show.

With theatre and TV credits including Starlight Express, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Popstars and X Factor, Kelly’s career achievements so far are exceptional.

“Yes, I certainly have been busy… I think I embarked on a career in this industry with the need to be loved and adored (like many artists). Fortunately, I was born being able to sing in tune, so this helped. Haha! And once I realised I could make others happy with my gift, there was no stopping me.”

Kelly’s first love has always been Dolly Parton and her music.

“She is just one of the most inspiring women on this planet. She is loved by everyone. And her talent is that of genius. She is not only a singer-songwriter (having written and recorded over 3,000 songs), she is a business woman, author, actress, humanitarian and philanthropist. She is a working class hero to so many around the world. And she’s as glamorous as a drag queen. What’s not to love???”

In 2011, Kelly had the chance to meet Dolly herself.

“It was such a surreal experience. I had all these questions that I wanted to ask, but of course, I was just completely tongue tied and in awe of her angelic beauty. Being in Dolly’s presence is a heavenly experience. She radiates the magic of a goddess.”

The Dolly Show is on its way to The Arkaba Hotel, this Friday 27 May at 8.00pm. No doubt this is a show for the fans, featuring all of her big hits, but what else are audiences going to experience with The Dolly Show?

“I am so excited to bring my UK theatre show here. And I embody Dolly from start to finish, like Dolly is standing right in front of you. Singing hits like 9 to 5, Jolene, Coat of Many Colours, Here You come Again and Islands In The Stream, while sharing stories about her life. The show will be complete with Dolly’s signature big hair, fabulous costumes, and never forgetting plenty of ‘Dollyisms’ throughout. And, for the first time in Australia, a live band of Adelaide musicians. It’s going to be amazing!!”

The Dolly Show will be performed for one show only this Friday, May 27th 8.00pm at The Arkaba Hotel. Tickets can be purchased through http://www.markushamence.com/ or at www.trybooking.com/BXUJU . 

Interview by Ben Stefanoff

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