REVIEW:
Dolly Parton
Vector Arena, Auckland
Not many artists could get away with performing a medley of their greatest hits.
But Dolly Parton had the packed Vector Arena audience eating out of her hand last night.
They were hardcore fans and had come from far and wide. She didn’t disappoint, despite veering perhaps a touch too far towards the evangelical at times.
Over almost two hours – and through a change of sparkly costumes – Parton spoke from the heart about her childhood and family.
Impossible not to like she belted out her best known numbers including Jolene, I Will Always Love You and Coat of Many Colours.
A polished and extensive band ensured a rich sound but Parton’s strong voice stood out. The woman can sing. And tell a good story.
The audience, a little constrained by the fully seated venue, lapped it up.
The biggest applause was reserved for the hits and it wasn’t until the end of the night that they all got to their feet but, for them, the 30-year wait since Parton’s last visit, was well worth it.
There’s an encore performance tonight.
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