All of the grandeur of the Benedum Center couldn't hold a candle to the truckload of rhinestones Dolly Parton rolled in with Tuesday night at the historic performance hall.

The legendary country star kicked off her "Backwoods Barbie" tour as only she could -- in a perfectly fitted two-piece orange suit decorated with silver fringe, rhinestones and those trademark heels.

But Dolly, being Dolly, does nothing small, or without excellence. From her spot-on band, to the backdrops and video clips to her personal collection of rhinestone-encrusted musical instruments (including a white-baby grand piano) it was a "Dolly-style dream" in every way.

But the real star of the show is that voice -- nothing compares to it.

Her clear, Tennessee mountain soprano is simply stunning and still soars nearly 50 years after she broke into the music business.

Dolly opened the show with "Two Doors Down" rolled into "Why'd You Come in Here Lookin Like That?" and quickly started talking with the audience about her life. A fan screamed "I Love You, Dolly!" and without missing a beat she replied "I told you to wait out in the truck!"

More hits followed with "Jolene," "Backwoods Barbie," and "White Limousine." On "Loudest of 'Em All," she worked her way through a trunk full of instruments, showcasing her musical talent on some and having some plain old campy fun with others. Tender moments followed with "Me and Little Andy" "Shattered Image" and "Coat of Many Colors," where she accompanied herself on dulcimer and autoharp and talked about her upbringing in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains. "Only Dreamin'," a haunting ballad from her new disc, was a beautiful homage to those mountain roots followed by a gospel medley that included "Old Time Religion" and "I'll Fly Away."

After intermission, Parton came out full force with "Baby I'm Burning." Some new material followed with "Better Get to Livin' " and "The Lonesomes" and a popular oldies medley intended to showcase the band. It slowed the show a bit -- I would have rather heard their talents through a variety of country music pieces.

Parton told stories all night and drew the audience right in with her laughter, joy and a life well lived. She wrapped up the evening with some of her top singles including "Here You Come Again," "9 to 5" and "I Will Always Love You."

Her encore of "Jesus & Gravity" left the audience singing along and with a happy heart -- the way you feel after a great night with your best friend.