Here You Come Again is livening up the Comedy Theatre with a joyous, glittering celebration of Dolly Parton’s music and legend, for a strictly limited run.
The story centres on Kevin who has moved from Melbourne back home to the Bendigo attic of his parents’ home during COVID-19 lockdowns. Here he revisits the devotion to Dolly Parton from his youth, which transports him into a whimsical dream world where Dolly offers counsel through song, humour and sage advice.
What might sound like a basic premise blooms into something touching and hilarious, as Kevin confronts personal heartbreak and self-doubt with Dolly as his mentor. Through playful comedy and emotional depth, the musical reframes Parton’s greatest hits as tools for resilience and hope.
Tricia Paoluccio shines as a fantasy version of Dolly, guiding the lovelorn superfan through life’s messy hurdles. With rhinestone boots and heartfelt wit, the show seamlessly weaves iconic hits—Jolene, 9 to 5, Islands in the Stream, I Will Always Love You—into a charming and uplifting narrative, with Dolly herself giving the makers of the musical permission to use her songs.
Paoluccio absolutely nails the performance of Dolly. If you close your eyes you’d believe it was the real deal diva talking, singing and giggling on stage.
Musically, the live band keeps up with every genre shift—from country twang to pop swagger—and the Australian ensemble delivers energetic performances alongside Paoluccio and Dash Kruck, whose Kevin is earnest and endearing.
Directed with sparkle and cheek by Gabriel Barre, with writing by Bruce Vilanch and adaption by Fiona Harris and Mike McLeish, Here You Come Again strikes the perfect balance between feel‑good nostalgic and heartfelt storytelling.
