May 7, 2026

Concerned Citizens Speak Up on Proposed Dolly Parton Theater in Orange Beach

By Rick McCann
Blue RAM Media/Gulf Coast News

May 7, 2026

ORANGE BEACH, Ala.

A proposed entertainment venue in Orange Beach is already getting a lot of push back as residents step forward with questions about traffic and noise and the environmental impact.

The Pirates Voyage Dinner Theater will be built off Orange Beach Boulevard if approved.
The site is currently the Beech Camper & Mobile Home Park.

The Dolly Parton Company pirate show also operates in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Panama City Beach, Fla.

Citizens packed the Orange Beach Performing Arts Center on Wednesday for a town hall and presentation from Mayor Tony Kennon and had many questions for the mayor.

Mayor Kennon told the audience that the property is already under contract for $14 million and will undergo all of the normal steps including the planned unit development (PUD) process, which is designed for “out-of-the-box projects.”

Kennon said that he called for citizens to meet with him to explain the details of the project and to address their concerns.

Kennon said he negotiated with developers to bring the best deal to the council for a vote and has discussed the city purchasing half of the property for drainage purposes and to keep it natural.

No matter what development comes to the property, Kennon said there will be traffic concerns. He said he spoke with officials from the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), who told him the roadway has sufficient capacity for the development.

For a sold-out show, the Pirates Voyage Dinner Show would bring in an estimated 285 vehicles. In the summer, there would be three shows a day. There are two shows during the off-season, although the business would be closed for part of the winter.

This venue will give residents and visitors another chance to enjoy quality entertainment by a name that most people recognize and a woman that is trusted and who has been very successful in business.

“It’s going to be something Kennon said.

Kennon told the crowd that the quality of life for area residents is directly related to tourism. That’s why he said city leaders need to pay close attention to attractions offered to ensure the city offers options for families.

The Planning Commission will consider the project on May 11, and the City Council will vote on the matter at its next regular meeting on June 2.