Rhinestone Cowgirl lighting up Fiddle Park in August

Written By JESSICA LAURENZA 

A southern drawl, glittery gowns, big hair and rhinestone boots. Rhinestone Cowgirl, otherwise known as Canadian Dolly Parton, is coming to Fiddle Park for a drive-in concert August 8 at 3:00 p.m. to pay homage to an iconic country singer. 

Rhinestone Cowgirl is a fundraiser presented by Shelburne Rotary Club to support its fight against food scarcity in the community. The pandemic presented an amazing opportunity to showcase talent while keeping residents safe and raising funds to strengthen community wellness. 

Co-President of the club, Bobbi Ferguson, explains this event will support the Shepherd's Cupboard Food Bank, the Christmas Hampers, breakfast programs at local schools and FIFE (Feed it Forward for Everyone). 

“The pandemic has prevented some families from putting food on the table. With the increased need for food banks, the Rotary Club is always there to supply the money and time required,” says Ferguson.

He explains that the Rotary Club hosted a drive-in movie in June and the best part was seeing how happy everyone was to gather. 

“I anticipate this event will be no different with everyone being able to enjoy the talented Leisa Way and the Wayward Wind Band,” Ferguson notes. 

Renowned singer Leisa Way has played for sold-out crowds across Canada, charming the audience with wit, humour and of course, the power of her voice. Her costumes are also designed by Parton's former designers, Joyce Critchlow who now resides in Toronto. 

“Dolly is such a personality,” Way says. “She's larger than life, but she is a kind, warm person, and of course, Dolly's famous sense of humour keeps the audience in stitches.”

Her ability to capture the true essence of Dolly Parton with her extraordinary range is what draws people from all over the country. The concert will take the audience through Parton's biggest hits including 9 to 5, Jolene, I Will Always Love You, and Islands In The Stream.

Way is proud to be involved with Parton's Imagination Library which promotes early childhood literacy by providing free books to kids up to age 5 in Canada. The program just gave out its millionth free book! 

The concert will also feature the Wayward Wind Band; Nathan Smith (singing Porter Wagoner); pianist/guitarist Bruce Ley, an Academy Award nominee; guitarist Fred Smith (singing Kenny Rogers); bass player Bobby Prochaska & drummer Don Reid. 

The proceeds from this concert along with the 50/50 draw will enable the Rotary Club to continue funding these programs in the coming year. Limited tickets are available for Rhinestone Cowgirl are $60 per car, available at shelburnerotaryclub.com or Pazazz, 122 Owen Sound St. Shelburne.

If you happen to meet ‘Dolly', she'll thank you with “I really do appreciate your being here ‘cause I do need the money. It costs a lot of money to look this cheap!”