Dolly Parton’s Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, reopens Wednesday after closing Tuesday as previously scheduled. After news of Parton’s death breaks, the company announces that the park will be open on Wednesday, citing Parton’s preferences.
Both outlets report that Dollywood’s executives frame the reopening as following Parton’s wishes. They say the park will operate “in her spirit,” and reference Parton’s signature “sparkle” and the idea that “the show must go on.” The statements do not indicate that the park’s plans for Tuesday’s closure change, but they present Wednesday’s reopening as a continuation of Parton’s intent.
Variety and Deadline both focus on the company’s response and the timing of the park’s operations, describing the same decision and the same messaging about honoring Parton’s legacy. Neither outlet adds details about attendance, staffing changes, or specific memorial events beyond the park being open Wednesday as Parton wanted.
