FROM PUPPETS TO PARTON, LEGENDS IN CONCERT PERFORMER HOPES TO LEAVE CROWDS HER LEGACY

The Laughlin Nevada Times

She has performed as a country singer at the legendary Grand Ol’ Opry in Nashville, and as a ventriloquist at theaters throughout the world. Created and produced by John Stuart, the show features a troupe of outstanding dancers and background singers.

For Legacy, show business has been a part of her life since she was a child, when her talent was discovered while growing up in Sandy, Oregon. When Legacy was 10 years old, she became a local celebrity after winning a trip to Nashville. After her performance in the country music capital, Legacy was promised a recording contract, something that ultimately never became a reality. But, Legacy did return to Nashville several times.

In 1986 Legacy was crowned third runner up in the Miss Oregon Pageant, and also received the title of Miss Talent. “Everything has really helped me to believe in myself,” Legacy said. “I was painfully shy as a child.” To help conquer her shyness, Legacy would play with her dolls and pretend that they sang with her voice. The dolls were soon traded for a puppet from a Sears catalog, and Legacy learned how to lip sing without moving her lips. Today she is a qualified ventriloquist, and has traveled nationally and overseas to perform.

“I’ve played with a band on air force bases in Hawaii, Japan, Korea, Guam and the Philippines,” Legacy said, “The show was divided into three parts - country music, ventriloquy and Dolly imitations.” Legacy discovered her talent for portraying Dolly Parton when she sang Parton’s hit song “9 to 5” in a high school play. She enjoyed imitating the superstar’s southern accent and characteristic voice so much, she made her own Dolly costume and started using the act as a closer in her other performances.

Legacy joined Legend in Concert after a try-out period at Six Flags amusement park in New Jersey. Legacy sings several Parton hits in the show, bringing the country singer’s unique personality to life. Legacy talks with the audience and even jokes with those up front, warning them she may tip over at any moment. She’s a little “top heavy,” Legacy warns the first row.

To the delight of the audience, Mark Hinds comes out and Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton are united. Together the pair sings “Islands in the Stream,” with the same flair and friendliness the real performers exhibit on stage.