A strong showing this spring in Orlando's tourist based economy has Dolly Parton giving the green light to begin construction on her famous Dixie Stampede Dinner and Shows. This will be the fourth attraction in the fast growing company. "We're excited to finally be underway with this project. In just about a year, millions of families visiting Orlando area will see a show they'll never forget. Our goal is to make us THE MOST FUN PLACE TO EAT IN ORLANDO," Dolly said.

The 28-million dollar project is being built in the heart of the entertainment corridor between Orlando's star resorts, Disney World and Universal Orlando on I-4. The project is being built by Suitt Construction of Greenville, South Carolina with offices in Orlando. The project's completion is set for summer 2003 with a Grand Opening on June 19.

"We're delighted to have Dolly and her Dixie Stampede join Orlando's great line-up of attractions. Tourism in Orlando continues to improve and we expect this to continue through the summer. We're looking forward to June, 2003 when Dolly will be here to officially open Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede," said Bill Peeper, president of the Orlando/Orange County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Inc.

"Dolly's organization is a welcome addition to our corporate family here in Orange County," said Richard T. Crotty, Orange County Chairman. " We are all looking forward to her Dixie Stampede opening next May."

Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede expansion into Orlando marks the largest expansion in the company's 14-year history. It mixes the best, traditional Southern foods with music and a high energy, live show featuring animals, action and audience participation into a package that has made Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampedes such a popular dining experience.

In 1988, Dolly opened the first Dixie Stampede in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Her brand of music, food, action and entertainment was so successful it enabled Dixie Stampede to expand into the other popular family tourist destinations of Branson, Missouri and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

"Our mission at Dixie Stampede is to greatly exceed our guest expectations by doing the unexpected," Dolly said. "Orlando is the home of world-class entertainment, and I think as my Dixie Stampede show changes from season to season each new spectacular act will astound visitors to Orlando and residents alike."