Drag queen fanfare and a rhinestone studded ensembles kicked off the opening night of Here You Come Again, the Dolly Parton musical comedy.
Fresh from US and UK runs, co-writer Tricia Paoluccio stars as Dolly Parton. With Parton herself giving the seal of approval to the musical. The storyline weaves in classic hits, including ‘Jolene’, ‘Nine to Five’ and ‘Islands in the Stream’. Though you don’t need to be a die-hard Dolly fan to enjoy this uplifting production. Her can-do spirit and relentless positivity are the crux of the character. 
Set during the COVID pandemic, my plus one and I immediately had anxiety flashbacks when actor Dash Kruck entered the stage in a mask. Fortunately, the setting serves as a metaphor for facing life adversities, rather than a deep dive into the endless days of lockdowns. The comedic yet depressed Kevin, played by Kruck, is recently single, unemployed and living in his parents’ attic. When Paoluccio appears in a puff of smoke, she embodies a Fairy Godmother fantasy version of Dolly Parton.
Whilst the plot centres on her imaginary relationship with Kevin, there are entertaining biographical antidotes sprinkled throughout. Like the time she entered a Dolly Parton look-alike contest and lost. The production also incorporates cute magic tricks, which makes watching the show live even more enjoyable.
The two lead actors are supported by a live band, who also double as the show’s other characters. Shout out to costume designer Paul Wills for the country-kitsch double denim ensembles and liberal use of rhinestones. The opening night audience joined the fun, with many wearing cowboy hats, boots, and sequins on the pink carpet. 
Here You Come Again is a feel-good winter warmer. Dolly Parton has a reputation for bringing joy to the world, whether through her music, her child literacy programs, or as an LGBTQIA advocate and icon. Naturally, after watching this uplifting musical my plus one and I left the theatre with massive smiles.
Touring nationally, Here You Come Again bootscoots to Perth in August, Sydney in September, and then boomerangs back to Melbourne in October. Book tickets now, the musical comedy tours Australia for a good time, not a long time.
– Jenny
Jenny Schmidt is an event adventurer. When she’s not attending live shows, you can find her sampling the latest craft beer or sipping a creative cocktail.
Here You Come Again plays in Perth 22-31 August, Sydney from 12 September and again at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre from 23 October. Running Time: 2 hours 20min, including 20min interval. Book tickets now.
