Decades of Dolly tribute show coming to Northallerton

Decades of Dolly, an acclaimed Dolly Parton tribute show, will be performed at The Forum in Northallerton on July 3, to mark the country music legend’s 80th birthday.

The theatrical production celebrates seven decades of Dolly Parton’s life and career, featuring signature hits such as Jolene, 9 to 5, I Will Always Love You, and Islands in the Stream.

Kelly O’Brien as Dolly Parton (Image: Joe Noble)

Kelly O’Brien, who stars as Dolly, said: “The Forum is the beating heart of Northallerton’s arts scene, and a venue that exists purely out of love for its community is somewhere Dolly would absolutely recognise, so I’m thrilled to be bringing her story here.”

The show features multiple costume changes, live music, and film projections that trace Parton’s journey from her early days in the Smoky Mountains to international superstardom.

Ms O’Brien, originally from South Australia and now based in Hertfordshire, has spent nearly 20 years touring the world as Dolly.

Her performances have taken her from the Singapore Grand Prix to Nashville, where members of Dolly Parton’s own family were reportedly “blown away” by her rendition.

A 51-year-old mother-of-two, Ms O’Brien taught herself to play guitar, harmonica, dulcimer, and banjo for the role.

Decades of Dolly will tour the UK throughout 2026, with additional dates confirmed in the US and Australia.

Tickets are available via The Forum’s website.