Archives for May 2025

Rapid Fire 20Q with international Dolly Parton tribute artist Kelly O’Brien as she brings ‘The Dolly Show’ to City Winery Nashville Sunday, May 18

May 17, 2025 by Jonathan

Having been named the UK’s Best Dolly Parton Tribute Act four years in a row by the Agent’s Association of Great Britain, Kelly O’Brien has been thrilling audiences across the pond since creating and touring THE DOLLY SHOW. Being a huge Dolly fan myself, I became aware of O’Brien’s uncanny ability to not only resemble the Queen of Country Music but to also speak and sing live as the beloved Tennessee treasure when I started following her on social media a couple years ago. So naturally, when I learned that O’Brien was embarking on her first-ever stateside tour, including a performance right here in Music City at City Winery Nashville on May 18, I knew I had to chat with her for the latest installment in my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire 20Q. What follow is that conversation.

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RAPID FIRE 20Q WITH THE DOLLY SHOW TRIBUTE ARTIST, KELLY OBRIEN

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Your upcoming May 18 show at City Winery Nashville marks your Music City debut. How excited are you to be performing as Dolly Parton in the town that claims her as our own?

KELLY O’BRIEN: I am beyond thrilled. It’s a real ‘pinch me’ moment in my career. And I’ve heard some of her family members may be there, so it’s a huge honor to be bringing my show to Nashville

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Before we chat about your Dolly Parton tribute show, THE DOLLY SHOW, I wanna ask you about your life ‘before Dolly’ if you will. You frequently credit your parents for your initial, albeit unintentional introduction to Dolly, remembering them playing her vinyl records when you were growing up in relatively rural McLaren Vale, Australia as you drifted off to sleep. So let’s start there…besides Dolly, what are your earliest musical memories?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Singing in the truck with my dad. I was about 4 years old and my parents had a bakery run. During the holidays we would get up at 4am to drive into Adelaide and load up the trucks with pies, pasties and donuts. All I had to keep me company in those days was the radio, so I was always singing.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You’re also quoted as deciding on a career in entertainment as young as eight thanks to seeing Kylie Minogue (another personal favorite of mine) and her sister Dannii on tv. What was it about the two of them that struck you as a viable career choice at such a young age?

KELLY O’BRIEN: I think I just loved attention, haha. Dannii was on a show called Young Talent Time (where Kyle also sang with her.) It was on TV every Saturday night. A group of 10 young kids singing, dancing and dressed in amazing costumes. I was hooked.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: By age 14 you were competing in country music singing competitions. What was your first win? AND what song did you win with?

KELLY O’BRIEN: I sang When Will I Be Loved by Linda Rondstadt. I think I won a trophy and a meat tray.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: To hone your craft, you attended University of Sydney’s Conservatorium of Music. What’s your favorite memory of that time in your life?

KELLY O’BRIEN: It was a jazz course. I wanted to learn the skill of improvisation, and playing piano whilst singing… It helped me immensely.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You also began enjoying a career in musical theatre around that time, if research serves me, landing roles in Starlight Express, The Hunchback of Notre Dame and more, even traveling to Germany with a national touring company. Talk about life on the road! Was that your first taste of tour life?

KELLY O’BRIEN: My first big lead role was in Starlight Express, Germany. I’d never been to Europe before that. Deep down, I know I would end up living on the other side of the world. There were just more opportunitys there. And I was right.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: OK, now for some Dolly-centered questions…I’ve met Dolly several times through the years, so when I say sound like Dolly, I mean it!…you not only sing live like her but also speak live as her during your act. You’ve got what I affectionately refer to as her ‘hiccup giggle’ down pat! When did you first discover you could sound like Dolly?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Well, this part was difficult. Dolly is a soprano and I am an alto, so it took a huge amount of practice. Her voice is very forward in the mouth, it’s a skill. It took a LONG time to perfect.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Then there’s Dolly’s look. You’ve been performing as Dolly in one form or another for about two decades, and from photos and clips I’ve seen, you just keep getting better. Do you find yourself studying Dolly still, in an effort to keep up the look and sound?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Absolutely. I am never complacent. There is so much to learn about Dolly. The instruments she plays, the Dolly-isms and stories she tells. I am always learning something new.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I mentioned Kylie earlier. You’ve performed as Kylie in the past, Brittney Spears and Judy Garland too, right? So what is it about Dolly that prompted you to build an entire show around her and not the other artists you’ve paid homage to in tribute?

KELLY O’BRIEN: For starters, I am only 5 ft tall, so that helped. haha Then I guess it was the fact I started singing country music so young. And the fact I was in musical theatre meant I knew how to create the ‘look’ needed to be a fabulous representation of Dolly.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: I remember the first time I met Dolly, and every time since then, so I gotta ask. What was it like when you met her in 2011?

KELLY O’BRIEN: It’s quite surreal meeting your idol. There are so many things you want to say… I told her how I was an impersonator and she loved that. She was very complimentary.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In doing a little online sleuthing in preparation of our chat, I discovered not only is Dolly a 1° of separation for us, but so was the late great prolific tv producer, Nigel Lythgoe; you having secured a Top 12 spot on Popstars Australia and I having worked on the first two season of American Idol! What do you remember most about your experience with that particular brand of reality television?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Oh dear! That was tough. I was in my twenties then. Not as confident back then. People tell you to ‘jump’ and you do it. If I were spoken to like that now, I’d tell THEM to go jump! haha

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Your Nashville debut is midway through your first-ever THE DOLLY SHOW tour in the U.S.. In fact, as we conduct this interview you’re boarding your flight to the U.S. What are you looking forward to most in sharing this show with your stateside audience?

KELLY O’BRIEN: I wonder if they will laugh at my jokes. I mean, they are Dolly gags, but I incorporate my own flair. I also involve the audience quite a bit. It’s an interative show. I hope it translates well…

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In the show you present several Dolly ‘looks’ representing her career from the earlier years to a more modern Dolly. Do you have a personal favorite of your Dolly looks?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Oooooh, I love the 70’s. Dolly’s hair was BIG! I love that look.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Ok, I gotta know…how much luggage do you travel with? How many wigs and costumes are among your gear?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Three suitcases, 7 costumes, 6 wigs. It’s a lot.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: For you personally, when, during your transformation into Dolly, do you feel the illusion is complete? Is it the wig, the wardrobe or the moment you walk onto the stage and greet your eager audience?

KELLY O’BRIEN: I always take a moment before the show to get into character. It’s usually once my wig is glued on and the transformation is complete.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Dolly isn’t just a fabulous singer, she’s a ridiculously prolific songwriter, so not only is the vocal skill important, the music is also key. To that end, I understand current Nashvillian, guitarist Danny Werner is part of your backing back. How did you meet Danny and who else have you got joining you in for your U.S. dates as part of THE DOLLY SHOW band?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Oh wow, you know Danny? How brilliant. I also have John Hagewood, Jon Ross and Jason Sullivan. They will be traveling from Nashville to do my shows in three different states. I will meet them on the first day of rehearsals. I hear they’re great musicians.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Like Dolly, being a singer is only part of who you are. You’re also a Wife and Mom. Have you brought the family along for the U.S. tour? OR are FaceTime and video chats what keep you connected during life on the road?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Not this time. My daughter performs at a very high level and is representing England at this years ‘Dance World Cup.’ She has to stay home and rehearse. And my husband Ben needs to drive her around. They will be traveling back with my in October for round two.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Wait a minute! Did I just get an exclusive? Round two in October, huh? That’s awesome! If you could only play one Dolly Parton album the rest of your life, what would it be and what song in particular means the most to you?

KELLY O’BRIEN: Little Sparrow, I just love that Bluegrass sound. I love Mountain Angel. It’s a seriously beautiful and haunting song.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: YES! Little Sparrow is my favorite Dolly album as well. I just love The Grass is Blue. Alright, we’re almost to the 20th questions, so…What’s next for you?

KELLY O’BRIEN: A rest! haha

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences take with them long after seeing your tribute to Dolly in THE DOLLY SHOW?

KELLY O’BRIEN: I hope they feel they’ve spent the night with Dolly. I hope they have fun, leave feeling a little lighter and full of love. Dolly brings people together like that.

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With that, my chat with Kelly O’Brien came to an end, but that’s not all for me, as you better believe I purchased tickets to THE DOLLY SHOW’s May 18 performance at City Winery Nashville. Doors open at 6pm for the Sunday, May 18 7:30pm show. Tickets range in price from $20 to $35. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets. Not in Nashville? You still have another chance to see Kelly O’Brien as Dolly stateside during this phase of the tour when she brings THE DOLLY SHOW to Roxy’s Cabaret in Minneapolis on May 23, and don’t forget the upcoming above-mentioned round two of US dates coming in October. Of course if you’re reading this interview and you happen to be in the UK, as soon as Kelly wraps her US dates she’s headed back for more dates in the UK with shows at Festival Theatre at Hever Castle’s Two Sisters Theatre in Kent on May 31, Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff on June 6&7, Bush Hall in London on June 20, The Glasshouse in Gateshead on June 28 and more. CLICK HERE for Kelly’s full tour schedule. You can also follow her on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. Heck, you can even book a personal Cameo message! In the meantime, check out Kelly O’Brien’s THE DOLLY SHOW promo video below!

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20Q with cast members of ‘MJ: The Michael Jackson Musical’; National Tour at TPAC’s Jackson Hall through May 11

May 10, 2025 by Jonathan

The term soundtrack of a generation might be overused, but with a solo career that spanned 45 years and included 13 number-one hits, 30 top ten singles, six decades of hits as an artist, 8 Grammys, and 26 American Music Awards…just to name a few accolades…it’s easy to say that Michael Jackson not only provided the soundtrack of a generation, but of GENERATIONS! That said, when I heard that the four-time Tony-winning Broadway musical, MJ: THE MUSICAL National Tour was headed to Music City, playing TPAC’s Jackson Hall thru May 11, I knew I had to chat with members of the company for my latest Rapid Fire 20Q. When I reached out to my TPAC contact, I found out I would be chatting with Anastasia Talley who plays Jackson’s Mom, Katherine Jackson, J. Daughtry who takes on the role of Motown hitmaker Berry Gordy, JoJo Carmichael, the company’s Dance Captain and Nashville’s own, Devin Bowles, who stars as Jackson family patriarch, Joe Jackson, so I knew these interviews were sure to be a Thriller!

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RAPID FIRE 20Q WITH CAST AND CREATIVES OF MJ: THE MUSICAL NATIONAL TOUR

RAPID FIRE WITH DEVIN BOWLES, JOE JACKSON IN MJ: THE MUSICAL

JHPENTERTAINMENT: You play Joe Jackson, the patriarch of the Jackson family in MJ: THE MUSICAL. What can you tell me about Joe, as he is written in the show?

DEVIN BOWLES: Joe Jackson is the Sun and everyone else and every thing navigates around him. We see the dominate and influential grip that he had on Michael and the remanence of his teachings. The environment that Joe created for his family was very controlling, abusive, and filled with mental schemes but all stemmed back to a tough love ideology that we showcase in this show.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Devin, I gotta tell you, when I heard you were joining the tour as Joe, I was so excited. It’s always fun for me seeing actors I knew from the local theatre scene go on to bigger things. Heck, I recall seeing you in shows at Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre and Studio Tenn. What’s most exciting about returning to Nashville for a tour stop at TPAC?

DEVIN BOWLES: It’s truly so surreal being back in Nashville! This city is where I began my professional career, it’s where my found my first community of artist, it’s the soil that ignited the ambition to be where I am now and to keep going. From Chaffin’s and to Studio Tenn, it’s a reminder of the power of manifestations, prayer, and full circle moments. I’m excited to continue to expand my artistry and career with this show and furthermore.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As expected, the show is overflowing with classic MJ tunes. A few lesser-known Jackson songs are also among the mix. Money, a track from 1995 release HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I is one that you’re featured on. What’s the significance of this song appearing in Act 2?

DEVIN BOWLES: There’s for sure some songs that wasn’t too known me when I began this journey, Money was also one of these songs. In this show, Joe sings about Money as substance that controls people and with that, he compares himself to it. He believes he owns Michael and is proclaiming that he will do anything for him and for the product he is trying to make.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Having been with the tour since the onset back in August of ’23, as Joe, you share the stage with all the actors portraying Michael at various points in his life. The current lineup includes Jordan Markus as MJ, Deaundré Woods at MJ (Alternate), Erik Hamilton as Michael and Quentin Blanton Jr. and Bane Griffith sharing the role of Little Michael. Using one word each, how would you describe the actors playing Michael?

DEVIN BOWLES:

Jordan Markus- Powerhouse

Erik Hamilton-Consistant

Dre Woods-Mastermind

Bane Griffith-Iconic

Quentin Blanton Jr.-Light

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As I mentioned earlier, you’re current Music City dates mark a homecoming for you. What are a couple of the ‘Must See’ Nashville things you hope to share with your cast mates while in town?

DEVIN BOWLES: I have already shared a list of restaurants, bars, lounges, and just all around great spots with the cast. I’m definitely going to dive into the food here that I have missed while being on the road, there’s nothing like it.

RAPID FIRE WITH JOJO CARMICHAEL, MJ THE MUSICAL’s DANCE CAPTAIN

JHPENTERTAINMENT: For those who might not be fully familiar, what exactly does being Dance Captain for MJ: THE MUSICAL entail?

JOJO CARMICHAEL: A number of responsibilities come with being dance captain for MJ: THE MUSICAL. One of them being, upholding the integrity of the choreography that we were taught day one. This can be married to making sure everyone is moving as one and the visuals are clean, clear and effective. I am also a swing, so I have the opportunity to perform. When new cast members join our company, I assist in teaching them the show. And I also teach classes across the country that are inspired by the movement we do in the show which I thoroughly enjoy. I’ve been able to learn so much through this position, as dance captain, and it is an opportunity I don’t take lightly.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: It’s not a stretch to say that Michael Jackson might be the most iconic pop star with some of the most memorable dance sequences ever. Is there a choreo moment in the show that you absolutely love performing night after night?

JOJO CARMICHAEL: My favorite number to perform would have to be the Fosse sequence into Smooth Criminal at the top of act two. There’s a sense of ferocity intertwined with mystery that comes with the movement which I find so fun to play with. Considering that it’s the only number in the show where it’s just MJ and the dancers on stage, it introduces a different energy to the show as well.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When did you know a career in movement was the life for you?

JOJO CARMICHAEL: Around eighth grade is when I started to look at dance as a professional career. For the longest time, I wanted to be a neurosurgeon and dance was just gonna be a hobby or side hustle. So my Mom arranged a conversation with a neurosurgeon who was in their residency at the time, and they shared with me that it’s about fifteen years of schooling. I couldn’t compute how to go to school for that long and still dance, so I chose dance and never looked back.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: One key element of MJ: THE MUSICAL is the family. Michael always had his family whether onstage as part of The Jackson 5 to their behind-the-scenes support. You always hear that theatre is family, too. I’d imagine that sense of family is only amplified on a National Tour, traveling together, performing together and likely spending off-hours together. What does the family aspect of tour life mean to you?

JOJO CARMICHAEL: On tour we only have each other. We celebrate birthdays, we console and support each other through hardships. We look after each other as if we are family. And this cast and crew is truly a beautiful group of human beings that I am proud to call family. In general, family is something that I heavily value and prioritize in my life. So, to now have this connection with my cast is one thing I’m most grateful for MJ: THE MUSICAL bringing into my life.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In addition to being Dance Captain, you’re also Swing, meaning you cover a multitude of roles stepping in to fill in when a member of the ensemble is out. What’s the most fun aspect of being Swing for a show like MJ?

JOJO CARMICHAEL: The most fun aspect of being a swing for this show is simply sharing the stage with this cast. We have a lot of fun up there. Even when we’re tired we find ways to lift each other’s spirits or make someone laugh. Being a swing also keeps my mind working, attentive and requires me to stay present which I find just as enjoyable as it is challenging.

RAPID FIRE WITH J. DAUGHTRY, BERRY GORDY/NICK in MJ: THE MUSICAL

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What can you tell me about your dual roles as Berry Gordy and Nick in MJ: THE MUSICAL?

J. DAUGHTRY: Nick is a savvy tour manager keeping things on track during rehearsals for Michael Jackson’s 1992 Dangerous World Tour. As Berry Gordy, I appear in flashbacks as the legendary founder of Motown Records—the man who first recognized young Michael’s extraordinary talent. Both roles highlight the forces shaping Michael’s artistic journey, from the business demands of the present to the mentorship and music legacy of his past.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How did you come to be part of the tour?

J. DAUGHTRY: I love the Motown story in fact the music is a part of the fabric of my life. So anytime there is a show related to Motown I make sure I audition. There was a position opening up on Broadway and I threw my hat in the ring. I didn’t get the role on Broadway but I was blessed with the tour.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: There are so many Michael Jackson looks, from his preteen natural hair and bellbottoms during the Jackson 5 era and his red leather Beat It jacket to single gloves and military-style regalia. Do you have a favorite wardrobe moment represented in the show?

J. DAUGHTRY: Absolutely! There are so many but surprisingly my favorite looks of MJ in the musical are when he’s in a simple blue silk shirt, white tee shirt and black slacks with the iconic loafers.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As I indicated in my intro to this piece, Michael Jackson’s music can truly be called the soundtrack of a generation. Which era is your favorite and why?

J. DAUGHTRY: I am an 80’s baby so I quite literally grew up on his music. I would have to say the Jackson 5 music is my favorite only because it’s what I grew up on.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Is there a song included in the musical that you weren’t as familiar with that you are now obsessed with hearing night after night?

J. DAUGHTRY: Yes, Keep the Faith. I had never heard the song and now it is a moment of inspiration.

RAPID FIRE WITH ANASTASIA TALLEY, KATHERINE JACKSON IN MJ: THE MUSICAL

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Who is Katherine Jackson to you?

ANASTASIA TALLEY: Katherine Jackson is the matriarch of the Jackson family and the mother of one of the greatest artists of our time. She is an undeniable source of love and compassion, and Michael Jackson was vocal about the influence she had in his life. This is portrayed beautifully in her song with MJ in the show.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Having been a fan of the Jacksons pretty much my whole life, I have this image of Katherine as the quieter, supportive parent, whereas Joe always seems to be portrayed in the media as the more business-oriented force behind the family. As she’s written in MJ: THE MUSICAL, what’s the most surprising aspect of Katherine’s persona that you’ve discovered?

ANASTASIA TALLEY: While it’s perhaps not surprising, I find myself deeply moved by the quiet but profound love she shows for her son and his artistry. Though often imagined as the reserved, supportive parent, the depth and fierceness of her devotion are portrayed with such clarity that it catches me off guard every time. There is a quiet power in her presence — deliberate, unwavering, and fiercely tender — and that quiet strength lingers with me more than I expect.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Speaking of Joe, to kick off this Rapid Fire 20Q, I chatted with Devin Bowles, who plays your on-stage husband. What’s it like sharing the stage with Devin night after night?

ANASTASIA TALLEY: It is an absolute joy to share the stage with Devin. He is an incredibly curious, compassionate, and growth-focused human being, and it truly shines through in his acting. His generosity as an actor is tremendously grounding, and that generosity serves as the perfect inspiration for the cast to discover and rediscover the scenes every night. Side note: Devin Bowles is HILARIOUS offstage! He also treats everyone with genuine warmth and care. A true class act.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As Katherine you’re featured in Act 1 alongside Little Michael and MJ on I’ll Be There, one of The Jackson 5’s more poignant songs. What does that scene and that song mean to you?

ANASTASIA TALLEY: I have sung that song literally hundreds of times with the show, and the way the meaning of the song deepens and changes never fails to astound me. The song is such a powerful display and vow of love. It’ is also a promise to show up, not just in words, but in action, for the people you love. It is a reminder that love is a verb. It is also a decision. I think the lyrics of the song depict that truth beautifully.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences come away remembering long after they’ve seen MJ: THE MUSICAL?

ANASTASIA TALLEY: I hope audiences remember the artistry, the music, the history, and the call to action: make the world a better place through change.

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MJ: THE MUSICAL wraps its two-week engagement at TPAC’s Jackson Hall with performances through May 11. CLICK HERE for tickets. While MJ: THE MUSICAL closes out TPAC’s current Broadway at TPAC season, there’s no stopping the art and entertainment. Among TPAC’s upcoming events: the annual Spotlight Awards: Nashville High School Musical Theatre Awards takes to the stage May 17. TPAC presents Paul Taylor Dance Company May 30-31, CAMP TPAC returns with theatre-centered intensives for various ages throughout June, plus much more entertainment throughout the summer. TPAC’s Broadway at TPAC 2025-2026 Season kicks off September 23-28 with THE WIZ. For more on these and all TPAC events, CLICK HERE. You can also follow TPAC on socials: TPAC on Instagram, X, YouTube and Facebook.

Following it’s Music City dates, MJ: THE MUSICAL continues its National Tour with performances in Fort Worth, TX May 13-18, Fayetteville, AR May 20-25, Milwaukee, WI May 27-June 1, Appleton, WI June 3-8 and more. For the full schedule of dates, or to purchase tickets in your city, CLICK HERE.You can also follow MJ: THE MUSICAL on their socials, so check them out on Facebook, Bluesky, Insta, YouTube and TikTok.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!