Sunday, May 4, 2008

Dolly, Wolfgang, Borgata!

We journeyed to the beautiful Borgata Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City last night to enjoy the legendary Dolly Parton in concert at the Borgata's spacious and comfortable Event Center.
Before the show we dined at Wolgang Puck's American Grille. Offering contemporary American cuisine in an upscale setting designed by preeminent hospitality designer Tony Chi, the restaurant is Chef Puck’s first east coast venture. Wolfgang Puck American Grille offers two distinctive dining experiences ranging from casual and relaxed to elegant and upscale, each with a different menu and price point. Guests enter the restaurant upon an elevated terrace that overlooks Borgata’s pedestrian walkway creating a great place to people-watch. We chose the informal Tavern and enjoyed perfect martinis and burgers. If you can find a better burger platter than the one served here please let us know. It's truly outstanding.
As for the show, Dolly is the kind of bigger-than-life entertainer and vivid personality who delivers on every level. She knows what you want to see and what you want to hear and it's all there. Magnificently done out and backed by eight musicians and three vocalists Dolly performed all her giant hits and then some. These included Nine to Five, Jolene, Here You Come Again and the poignant Coat of Many Colors. She also delivered songs from her new album, Backwoods Barbie.
Dolly is a well-grounded entertainer and consummate musician who has actually written thousands of songs (including I Will Always Love You, which she also performed) and she is a real person who is proud of her country roots as well. She is an incandescent talent.
Thanks goodness there was no warm up act. The show started promptly and ran more than two hours with a brief intermission. Dolly Parton is the Real Deal.
And this too: The Borgata remains a personal favorite of ours. Everyone at the Borgata is friendly and courteous. It's a joy to visit this spectacular property because it is so well managed and the staff is so accommodating. Bravo!

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