Country music superstar Dolly Parton has her sights set on Broadway and the silver screen — but first, she’s hitting the road again.
Parton announced Monday morning that she’s taking her biggest North American tour in more than 20 years this summer, following the release of a new album. She’ll perform hits like “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You,” in addition to new songs, but on a pared-down stage with mostly acoustic instruments.
The tour, Pure & Simple, is named after her upcoming album. “I don’t know how pure I am, but I know I’m pretty simple,” she said.
Parton said she wanted to make sure to tour this year because she’s getting more involved in a long list of other projects. A made-for-TV movie based on her family, called “The Coat of Many Colors,” came out a few months ago, and Parton is working with NBC on three more movies, including one about an adultress named “Jolene.”
She also confirmed that she’s working on a Broadway musical.
“As a matter of fact, I just got the final scripts,” she told reporters at a press conference. “I’m telling my life story as a musical, which I’ve written all the music for. A lot of the hits will be in it, but I’ve written a lot of new music as well.”
In her personal life, the 70-year old star will celebrate her 50th anniversary with her husband by renewing their vows. Parton is getting fitted for a new wedding dress, she said.
“That dress ain’t going to be pure nor simple,” she said.
Parton said she has no plans to slow down or retire.
“I just keep thinking, ‘I’m going to run out of time! There’s so much I still want to do,’ ” she said. “And I keep thinking, ‘Don’t think like that. Just do it. Just do it. Just work like you’re 16.’ “
The 70-year old star is not, however, venturing into the political arena. When this WPLN reporter asked for her thoughts on the election, she declined to comment.
“Ah, I don’t talk politics or religion,” she said with a laugh.
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