PIGEON FORGE, Tenn.—Dollywood theme park claimed its third consecutive international Heartbeat Award along with three additional trophies at this year’s International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo’s Big E entertainment awards ceremony in Orlando on Nov. 20.
The latest awards bring Dollywood’s total to 11 in the past three years, more than any other theme park in the world.
Dreamland Drive-In won the prestigious Heartbeat Award for the second time. The show claimed the same award in 2006, while the park’s The Great American Country Show won in 2007. The Heartbeat Award recognizes the show that demonstrates superior overall ability in reaching the hearts of its audience. Candidates are judged on the commitment of the cast, the quality and content of the production and the effectiveness on the part of the producing organization in seeking to create a special connection with its audience. More than 160 productions were evaluated in the competition.
“We are very pleased to once again receive the Heartbeat Award along with the other recognition we received at this year's Big E Awards,” said Dollywood’s Director of Entertainment Paul Couch. “At Dollywood, we strive to touch the hearts of our audiences in a meaningful way. This award tells me and our industry that we are doing just that.”
Dollywood’s Gem Tones, an a capella group that performs ’50s and ‘60s music, was named Best Atmosphere/Street Performer. Creature Adventures starring the Kratt Brothers, a show which premiered in 2008 as the headliner of the park’s annual KidsFest event, won honorable mention in the Best Live Edutainment Show category. Park performer Arnie Shaw from The Great American Country Show won honorable mention for Best Female Performer.
IAAPA is the largest international trade association for permanently situated amusement facilities worldwide. The organization represents more than 4,500 facility, supplier, and individual members from more than 90 countries.
Dollywood is a 150-acre family adventure park in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. Open nine months a year, Dollywood offers more than 40 rides and attractions including the award-winning coasters Thunderhead® and Mystery Mine®, live entertainment and crafters. For more information, call 1-800-DOLLYWOOD or visit dollywood.com.
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