Lauren Alaina was forced to abruptly cancel her performances that were set to take place during the pair of “Opry Goes Dolly” events at The Ryman Auditorium on Friday evening (Jan. 19). Hours before the show, a representative for the iconic Nashville venue took to their social media accounts to share the unfortunate news with fans planning to attend Dolly Parton’s 78th birthday celebration.
“Due to unforeseen circumstances, @laurenalaina will no longer be performing on tonight’s ‘Opry Goes Dolly’ shows,” The Ryman shared. “We’ll see y’all in the pews tonight!”
Alaina Issues Statement On Why She’s Unable To Perform At Opry Goes Dolly
A few hours later, Lauren Alaina issued a statement with fans, letting them know that due to the historic Nashville snow she is able to get off her street as she lives in a rural area on country roads.
“I’m so sad to miss the show tonight!” Alaina wrote in a statement that she shared in her Instagram stories on Friday afternoon (Jan. 19). “I live out on country roads & am unable to get off my street. Can’t wait to see y’all at the Opry soon. Stay safe and warm out there.”
Alaina’s cancelation comes in the wake of a record-breaking average of 8 inches of snow in the Nashville area since it began falling on Sunday (Jan. 14), according to the U.S. National Weather Service.
The Tennessean reported that Music City received “its yearly average of snow in less than 24 hours.” From 1991 to 2020, the annual snowfall averaged 4.7 inches, as reported by the weather service. Over the period from 1871 to the present, the average stands at 8.1 inches.
Celebrated Dolly Parton’s 78th Birthday On Social Media
Alaina may be unable to take part in Parton’s birthday festivities this evening, however, that didn’t stop her from sharing a heartfelt birthday message for the country icon.
“Join me in taking PARTON wishing Dolly a Happy Birthday. We love you, and thank you for all that you’ve done to pave the way 🎂,” Alaina wrote on Instagram, wishing Parton a Happy Birthday and showcasing gratitude for her guiding the way for women in Country music.
Opry Does Dolly At The Ryman
“Opry Goes Dolly” is an event hosted by the Grand Ole Opry at The Ryman Auditorium. This year, which marks the second annual event celebrating Parton’s birthday, the Opry will host two shows (7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.) on the country music icon’s 78th birthday, January 19, 2024.
The “Opry Goes Dolly” events will feature performances from Terri Clark, Dailey & Vincent, and Don Schlitz as well as special guests Elle King, Ashley Monroe, and Tigirlily Gold.
These country artists will grace the stage to pay tribute to the legendary “9 To 5” singer and Grand Ole Opry member with performances of some of her most cherished Dolly hits such as “Jolene,” and more. Additionally, a lucky sweepstakes’ winner will appear during the show to lead the audience in a rendition of “Happy Birthday” to celebrate the musical icon.
A massive birthday card is also on display for concertgoers to sign in honor of Parton’s special day. $5 from each ticket sold for the January 19th show will go to the Opry Trust Fund in recognition of Parton. Over five decades, the fund has provided support to individuals within the country music community facing hardships.
While the events do celebrate Dolly Parton’s birthday, unfortunately the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer will not be in attendance or making any appearances.
