NASHVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Madame Tussauds, the world-renowned wax attraction slated to open its newest location in Nashville this spring, and country superstar Brad Paisley joined forces to pay tribute to Grand Ole Opry legend Little Jimmy Dickens. While appearing on last night’s Opry at the Ryman show, Paisley honored his longtime friend by playing the Little Jimmy Dickens hit “Out Behind the Barn” and unveiling the late singer’s figure to a sold-out audience.
Little Jimmy Dickens, famous for his humorous novelty country songs and his small 4-foot-11-inch stature, had a profound impact on country music. Not only is Dickens credited for introducing rhinestone-studded outfits to live country music performances, he was also the first country artist to circle the globe while on tour. He is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry more than 60 years ago. Dickens was the oldest living member of the Opry before his death in early 2015.
“I’m floored at the likeness,” said Brad Paisley. “Jimmy gave the Opry the personality it deserved. He was the kindest to new artists of anybody. He was never judgmental and he was always extremely supportive. He was a man who loved everyone and I’m honored to sing one of his songs (“Out Behind the Barn”).”
Each Madame Tussauds figure is truly a work of art, involving teams of professional artists and sculptors who spend months on extensive research and take more than 300 measurements to recreate world-famous icons, to achieve the kind of astonishing realism that has been at the heart of the 250-year Madame Tussauds legacy.
The life-like figure, which portrays Jimmy from the 1960’s, is adorned with one of Dickens’ signature rhinestone-studded suits designed by his original tailors, a “JD” ring, cowboy boots and cowboy hat. His figure’s friendly, relaxed expression was decided upon by his wife so guests had the opportunity to experience the twinkle in his eye. His figure will be perched on a stool, playing a personalized guitar in a broadcast setting within the attraction.
With a completely different concept, the attraction in Nashville will be the company’s first offering in the U.S. that focuses solely on music icons that have shaped America’s musical landscape. Guests are encouraged to have fun with the famous stars from musical genres such as Country, Rock n Roll, Jazz, Blues and Pop.
Additional figures hitting the stage at Madame Tussauds Nashville include Carrie Underwood, Stevie Wonder, Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Minnie Pearl and Johnny Cash. More artists will be added to the bill within the coming weeks.
Guests can save $5 off the regular price by purchasing early bird tickets to the attraction. The tickets can be redeemed anytime following the grand opening until the end of 2017. Purchasing early bird tickets will provide guests with the opportunity to be one of the first to experience the attraction. These limited-time-only tickets are $19 for adults and $14 for children ages 3-12. Prices will return to regular attraction price following the grand opening. Ages two and under are free.
To stay up to date on progress and new figure reveals, visit the attraction’s website and join the newsletter at https://www.madametussauds.com/nashville.
Additionally, stay connected on social media for real-time updates:
- Facebook: /madametussaudsnashville
- Instagram: @tussaudsnashville
- Twitter: @tussaudsnash
- Hashtag: #MadameTussaudsNashville
About Madame Tussauds Nashville
Madame Tussauds Nashville attraction is a new interactive wax experience where guests have the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the world's biggest musical icons. Built to honor Music City and its deep roots into America’s history, Madame Tussauds will host visitors from across the globe as they enjoy a historical walk through America’s musical past and present with vivid scenes supporting the colorful cast of figures. Conveniently located within Opry Mills Mall, the star-studded attraction is set to open in the spring of 2017.
Visit www.madametussauds.com/nashville or the attraction’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/mademetussaudsnashville for more information.
About the Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry® is presented by Humana®. Opry performances are held every Friday and Saturday of the year, with Tuesday Night Opry shows through December 13. To plan an Opry visit, call (800) SEE-OPRY or visit opry.com. The Opry presents the best in country music live every week from Nashville, Tenn. Marking more than nine decades of entertainment, the Opry can be heard at opry.com and wsmonline.com, Opry and WSM mobile apps, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and its flagship home, 650 AM-WSM. The Grand Ole Opry is owned by Ryman Hospitality Properties (NYSE: RHP). For more information, visit opry.com.
About Merlin Entertainments plc
Merlin Entertainments plc is a global leader in location based, family entertainment. As Europe's Number 1 and the world's second-largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin now operates over 100 attractions, 13 hotels and 5 holiday villages in 24 countries and across 4 continents. The company aims to deliver memorable experiences to its more than 60 million visitors worldwide, through its iconic global and local brands, and the commitment and passion of its c.27,000 employees (peak season).
Visit www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information.
