Dolly Parton is looking for a Dolly for every stage of life for her upcoming musical, Dolly: An Original Musical. As this show highlights Parton’s life story, she will need multiple actresses to play her, and she’s launched a social media search to find the best fit for each phase of life represented throughout the show.
As Dolly herself posted, “I’m announcing the search for Dolly. Now, whether you’re chasing your dreams from a small town or you’ve spent years performing on stages across the country, I want to give you the chance to help me bring my story to Broadway. And maybe even play me! This show is a celebration of my music, my life, and all the amazing people who’ve been with me along the way. Now, we are looking for talented performers who can capture the spirit of my journey, whether you’re an experienced theater professional or an undiscovered gem with that little special something. The selected few will get the chance to audition in person in front of our show’s casting director.”
Since she announced her #SearchForDolly, social media has been flooded with hopeful actresses, Dolly Parton fans, and impersonators. In these videos, each auditioner gives everything they’ve got to make it to the in-person auditions.
However, one recent audition has risen above the others, going viral and impacting seemingly everyone who has seen it. Although the singer doesn’t have Dolly’s signature blonde hair or look as overtly stylized as the singer as many other performers have, she makes up for it with raw, unequivocal talent. This woman’s audition tape was taken shortly after she was evacuated due to the California wildfires, and suffice it to say that she’s captured the heart of America.
Who Is Halye Spence Brown?
Haley Spence Brown, a member of the duo The Doohickeys, shared her audition tape for the musical, but with an unconventional twist. Brown had just been evacuated from her home in Los Angeles when she recorded and shared her audition tape from a hotel room. The resulting performance had garnered widespread acclaim, with many likening the performance to that of Timothée Chalamet’s recent work as Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown; less an impersonation of the star in question and a far more authentic portrayal of them as a result.
Like Dolly in the video’s caption, Brown shares how to help other artists who have lost their homes in Los Angeles and gracefully delivers one of the most authentic Dolly impressions.
“Search For Dolly is time-sensitive, so here’s my audition. In light of the devastation in our city of Los Angeles, I wasn’t sure if it was appropriate to post this. Still, this particular song has gotten me through some rough times, and I hope it can distract you for a minute. Dolly is a helper and remains positive in the face of tragedy—check out our story for a list of local musicians who lost their homes that you can donate to.”
Originally from Missouri, Brown lays down a stellar cover of “Wildflowers.” Before starting the song, she noted that this tune has helped get her through some very tough times and once again serves a purpose as the fires pushed her out of her home, potentially taking her belongings too.
Comments Left on the Video
“This is the most authentic and least cartoonish one I’ve seen.”
“I want you to have this. #SearchForDolly can stop right here.”
“Soul. The others were missing this soul.”
“This one didn’t just feel like an impression. It felt like her.”
“THIS IS IT!!! Not overly gimmicky and raw talent. Plus, you do look like young Dolly.”
“This felt so comforting and authentic compared to the other search for Dolly videos I’ve seen. Fingers crossed for you, and I’m glad you and your sweet cat are safe!”
“This was so raw and authentic….. Tears.”
“You should totally go to Dollywood and audition! She’s there a lot!”
“Now this. This feels like Dolly so much. Like the girlie everyone talks about is insanely talented, but this feels so rooted in honesty.”
While the part for Dolly has not been announced yet, it looks like Brown has a good chance in the running. Whether she gets the part or not, Brown has clearly left a lasting impact on music fans.
