Dolly Parton Gave Signed Guitar to Brigitte Bandit for 2023 LGBTQ+ Advocacy

3 articles · Updated · KUT · Aug 25

A rhinestoned acoustic guitar signed by Dolly Parton was presented to Texas drag performer Brigitte Bandit after a December 2023 show, recognizing her advocacy against anti-drag legislation.
Bandit had testified at the Texas Capitol and joined a lawsuit challenging bills targeting some drag performances and story hours, drawing wider attention when she appeared in drag with a children's book about Parton.
Bandit said Parton's niece, drag performer Rebecca Seaver, showed the singer that Capitol photo and helped arrange the surprise gift.
Parton, who died Tuesday in Nashville, remained a queer icon to Bandit, who said the singer's message of love and self-acceptance shaped both her performances and activism.
Saturday's regular Drag Hoedown at Stoney's Good Time Ranch will serve as a tribute to Parton, with Bandit planning to bring the guitar.