Dolly Parton’s longtime creative eye and wardrobe architect is finally pulling back the curtain, revealing what life really looked like working behind the Tennessee legend’s sparkle. ML
Roane State Foundation invites the community to a special event this fall benefiting multiple programs at Roane State Community College.
On November 14, 2025, the college’s flagship campus in Harriman will welcome Steve Summers, nationally recognized costume designer and creative director for Dolly Parton.
Summers, a native of Harriman, has been styling Dolly Parton for more than three decades.
Starting as a singer and dancer at Dollywood in the early 90s, he eventually became one of Dolly’s onstage dance partners before being promoted to creative director in 2006. Summers and his team now create up to 300 clothing ensembles for Dolly every year.
At the event, Summers will discuss his journey with Dolly and share stories about his life and work. An exclusive exhibit of Dolly’s costumes will be on display and a special recorded message from Dolly herself will be shared with the audience.
The event will be held inside the O’Brien Theatre on campus, located at 276 Patton Lane. The show starts at 7:30pm ET immediately following a VIP meet and greet scheduled for 6:30pm ET. Former local news anchor Beth Haynes will serve as emcee.
Tickets are on sale now at our.show/summersevening. All proceeds support visual and performing arts at Roane State as well as the college’s athletics programs. Prices vary depending on seating. A limited number of VIP tickets are available.
A special discount code for non-VIP seating has been created for Roane State students, faculty, and staff. Please check Roane State email for details.
