Here You Come Again: A Glittering Love Letter to Dolly
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Honey, grab your rhinestones and prepare for a heartwarming theatrical hug from the Queen of Country herself! The Australian adaptation of 'Here You Come Again' has sashayed into the Melbourne Comedy Theatre, and it's serving exactly what we need ā a healthy dose of Dolly wisdom wrapped in sequins and hope.
A Pandemic Tale with a Parton Twist
Set in a Bendigo bedroom loft during those dreaded lockdown days (remember those?), we meet Kevin (played by the absolutely fabulous Dash Kruck), who's serving major 'down in the dumps' realness. Boyfriend drama? Check. Creative block? You bet. Unemployment? Unfortunately, also check. But darling, when the going gets tough, the tough get Dolly!
When Dolly Comes to Life
Enter the incomparable Tricia Paoluccio as Dolly Parton, who literally springs from the poster-covered walls like the fairy godmother we all wished we had during isolation. And let me tell you, this queen doesn't just bring the look ā she brings the whole Dolly package!
The Music, Obviously!
The show serves up Dolly's greatest hits like the finest Tennessee whiskey. 'Jolene' hits different here, trust me ā it's giving goosebumps and feelings. And when '9 to 5' kicks off the second act? Baby, that's the serotonin boost we've been waiting for!
More Than Just a Jukebox Musical
While yes, this is technically a vehicle for Dolly's iconic songbook (and we're not mad about it), it's also a touching story about finding your inner strength ā with a little help from a country music legend. The house band does double duty as family members and the troublesome boyfriend, serving harmonies that would make angels jealous.
The Tea on Technical Elements
The set is a nostalgic feast, featuring Australian icon Humphrey B Bear (werk!), while perfectly capturing that claustrophobic lockdown feeling we'd rather forget. The lighting is *chef's kiss*, and there's enough glitter to make RuPaul proud.
The Verdict
āāāāĀ½ (4.5/5 stars)
When life's got you down, channel your inner Dolly and strut your way to the Comedy Theatre. 'Here You Come Again' is serving until November 2, 2025, and honey, you don't want to miss this!
Show Details
Venue: Melbourne Comedy Theatre
Running until: November 2, 2025
Starring: Tricia Paoluccio as Dolly Parton and Dash Kruck as Kevin