The World Grotto Knoxville, in conjunction with resident artist Christopher Hamblin, will present the world’s first "Night of 1,000 Dollies: All Parton All Night" with special guests Jenna and the Joneses on Saturday, April 14.
A silent auction will start the evening at 8:00 p.m. with all proceeds from the auction donated to Dolly’s National Literacy Campaign that sends free books to children who might not otherwise have access to them. Jenna and the Joneses will follow along with the contests and the all-Dolly performance will begin at 11:00 p.m.
Inspired by Chi Chi Valenti’s legendary New York party "Night of 1,000 Stevies," in tribute to Stevie Nicks, this evening celebrating the career of Dolly Parton is already reaching an international audience and is sure to be a bra-buster where Dolly fans from all over the world will convene in her home state.
In addition to the Dolly-inspired art in The Grotto Gallery, the show cast includes Hamblin as host, Knoxville songwriter Christina Horn of Hudson K, mezzo-soprano and Knoxville Opera Studio member Candra Marshall, the girls of White Lightnin’ Burlesque, drag legend and Dolly impersonator Angel Collins and Dolly’s own niece and namesake - Nashville-based singer/songwriter Rebecca Seaver. Parton cousin Jamie Howard and other surprise members of Dolly-kin will be judging the Biggest Boobs, Biggest Hair, Look-alike and Tackiest contests. Dolly fans of all generations and lifestyles are welcome and encouraged to attend.
General admission will be $10 with an $8 discount for those dressed as Dolly, Kenny, Cas Walker or any other Dolly-related costume. (Balloons will be available at the door for those who feel “chestfully” under-equipped.) The World Grotto, located at 16 Market Square in Knoxville, is open to only those over the age of 18 after 9:00 p.m.,however, those under 18 wishing to attend may do so with the accompaniment of a legal guardian at a cost of $12.
Dolly and art fans alike are encouraged to join The World Grotto for wine and cheese on Friday, April 6, as well for Knoxville’s monthly First Friday’s art walk. The original Dolly art will be unveiled at this event and admission is free.
Listen for Hamblin on WDVX’s Blue Plate Special Friday, April 13, at noon to hear more about the event. Sponsors include www.DollyMania.net, Local Color Ink, Carl’s Salon, "The MetroPulse," Studio Mischief Photography, Flashback/Whatever, The Hippie Sweatshop and The Disc Exchange.
Visit www.myspace.com/nightof1000dollies for additional information.
