Islands in the Stream was a top hit for Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton in 1983 and continues to be a fan favourite 35 years later.
Even before the audience had entered the auditorium in Newport’s Riverfront theatre on Friday evening, the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as long queues in the Bar held up the show for 10 mins.
Coming on stage singing a brief snippet of Islands in the Stream and engaging with the audience straight away the “Dolly” and “Kenny” sound-alikes set the tone for a fun night of music memories – country style!
“Kenny Rogers” in The Entertainers, production Islands In The Stream
The first song the pair performed together was Dolly and Kenny’s 1985 country hit, Real Love, after which “Dolly” left the stage, allowing “Kenny” to take the spotlight for a few songs.
Always encouraging everyone to be on their feet, “Kenny’s” first set highlights included She’s still a mystery and Ruby which really had he audience loosening up and singing along.
“Dolly” then returned to the stage keeping the feelgood atmosphere going with Love is like a Butterfly and Jolene, both introduced with information on how each song was devised.
“Dolly Parton” performs her greatest hits in The Entertainers’ production, “Islands In The Stream”.
The Second Act started with another duet, There’s A Reason, after which “Dolly” left “Kenny” to the audience again. This set included many more of Kenny Rogers famous songs, much to the audience delight. including She Believes in Me, The Coward of the County, Lady, Lucille, and Nowhere to Run. By the end of the set, “Kenny” had the audience dancing with him as well as much of the crowd singing along
“Dolly” then returned to the stage for a duet of We Got Tonight before launching into a rendition of Tammy Wynette’s Stand by Your Man and further Parton hits 9-5 and I Will Always Love You.
The show culminated with Islands in the Stream. The audience kept up the momentum of participation much to the delight of the performers, Indeed Islands in the Stream was a fitting tribute to both Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton and a fantastic night out for all concerned.