Dolly Chandler Appointed Director of Entertainment at SongTeller Hotel

NASHVILLE, Tennessee — Dolly Parton's SongTeller Hotel has appointed Dolly Chandler as Director of Programming and Entertainment, bringing a Nashville-based live music programmer with more than a decade of talent buying experience to the property ahead of its Fall 2026 opening.

Chandler joins from Opry Entertainment Group, where she served as Senior Talent Buyer since 2017.

Dolly Chandler Leads Entertainment Vision at SongTeller Hotel Nashville

In her new role, Chandler oversees all entertainment and programming across the hotel's two on-site venues- Parton's Live, the property's main entertainment space, and Jolene's, its lounge. Her brief covers live music bookings, songwriter sessions and special events.

Before Opry Entertainment Group, Chandler helped build the programming strategy at City Winery Nashville, booking more than 350 live events annually in a 300-seat venue. Earlier, as Programming Director at The Franklin Theatre, she booked and executed more than 400 concerts, film screenings and community events following the historic venue's renovation.

Nashville Roots Run Deep for Incoming Programming Director

Dolly Chandler was born and raised in Nashville. She started her career at John Prine's Oh Boy Records after graduating from Western Kentucky University with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations. She also worked in media relations and music publishing before moving into talent buying.

She is an active member of SOURCE, a nonprofit focused on supporting women in the Nashville music industry.

Hotel Leadership Cites Industry Expertise and Creative Range

"Dolly Chandler brings an exceptional combination of industry expertise, creative vision, and deep Nashville roots to the SongTeller Hotel," said Shannon Foster, General Manager of Dolly Parton's SongTeller Hotel. "Her leadership will be instrumental in building a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience that reflects the spirit and legacy of Dolly Parton."

"I'm honored to join the team of Dolly Parton's SongTeller Hotel and help bring its vision to life," Dolly Chandler said. "This is an incredible opportunity to create meaningful, memorable moments for guests while celebrating the rich storytelling tradition that defines Nashville's music scene."

About Dolly Parton's SongTeller Hotel

SongTeller Hotel is a partnership between Dolly Parton and Herschend, the world's largest family-held themed attractions company. The two have worked together for 40 years, producing Dollywood's DreamMore Resort and Spa and Dollywood's HeartSong Lodge and Resort.

Opening in Fall 2026, the Nashville property will offer 245 guest rooms and suites, Dolly's Life of Many Colors Museum, and the two entertainment venues. The hotel sits in the heart of Music City.

Source: Official announcement, Dolly Parton's SongTeller Hotel.

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