Energetic, colourful, and fun are just a few words to describe the wholesome experience that is Here You Come Again, the Dolly Parton musical. Incorporating many of the best hits of Parton’s music, this juke-box musical comedy is packed with glitz, drama, sing-alongs. It also asks the age-old question: ‘What Would Dolly Do?’
Specifically adapted for Australian audiences by Fiona Harris and Mike McLeish after great success in the US and UK, Gabriel Barre’s direction of Bruce Vilanch and Tricia Paoluccio’s feel-good musical is sure to bring smiles and laughter to audiences of all ages.
Invited into a chaotically colourful attic, we are introduced to aspiring comic Kevin (Dash Kruck), who has moved back to live with his parents in Bendigo during the COVID pandemic. Struggling with his many rolls of toilet paper and his uncertain purpose in life, Kevin turns to his teenage posters of Dolly Parton for advice.
As a representative of his inner voice, Dolly Parton (Tricia Paoluccio) helps to guide Kevin on finding some perspective and self-confidence through song and conversation.
Materialising through posters, bathrooms and other apertures, Dolly’s presence is simply magical as she encourages everyone to: “stop looking in mirrors and start looking out windows.”
The camaraderie of the cast is evident through the effortless transitions between the dialogue and music, and the flexibility of the ensemble around the leads.
Paoluccio’s Dolly is warm and wonderful. She gives the impression that we are experiencing an evening with Dolly Parton as she shares little snippets of her life within the story. Her Fairy Godmother-like dynamic with Kevin is a delight to witness.
Kruck’s range in emotional energy and timing is marvellous and a striking contrast to Paoluccio’s calm presence. The versatility of Kelli Rode, Bailey Dunnage, and Laura Joy Bunting as various dancers, musicians, and minor characters adds colour and aids in expanding the boundaries of the world on stage.
Rounding out the performance are the brilliant live musicians, often moving around with their instruments to suit the song. Led by Musical Director Andrew Worboys on piano, Ash Murdica on Guitar, Tina Harris on Bass, and Luke Herbert on Drums, they fantastically facilitate taking the audience back in time to the many familiar tunes.
Full of stage magic and music, Here You Come Again presents a relatable story of life’s paths diverging and new avenues opening just when they’re least expected but most needed. With Dolly-inspiring dress encouraged, expect a joyful and touching theatrical experience.
Here You Come Again runs to 14 December at the Her Majesty’s Theatre. 58 Grote Street Adelaide SA 5000.
Tickets: https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=HEREYOU25
Website: https://hereyoucomeagain.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/hereyoucomeagainaustralia/
Photo credits: Cameron Grant
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One response to “Review: Here You Come Again Hits Adelaide With Pure Dolly Joy”
Absolutely dreadful show. Dolly hidden amongst overacted, irrelevant storyline.
Leading lady was fantastic. If just her, I’d willingly have paid double.
The script overpowers on a trashy set, trashy skits and a weird mix of her songs.
Left at half time.
Worst show I’ve seen in 66years.