There is something special about a show that can make an entire audience grin from ear to ear for two hours straight. Here You Come Again does exactly that, a feel-good Dolly Parton musical that is equal parts glitter, giggles and heart. From the first few strums of that unmistakable twang, you could feel the crowd settle in for a night of pure joy.
Directed by Gabriel Barre, with an Australian adaptation by Fiona Harris and Mike McLeish, the show captures Dolly’s world-famous spirit while giving it a distinctly local twist. Framed in a small-town setting that could belong anywhere, it threads Dolly’s greatest hits through a story about resilience and rediscovering joy. Clever Aussie references keep it close to home, and in Melbourne, the playful nods to Humphrey B. Bear and Agro had the crowd in stitches.
We first meet Kevin, brought to life by Dash Kruck, whose performance is full of heart, humour and a touch of vulnerability. His Kevin feels instantly familiar, that friend we all know who’s doing their best to hold it together while chasing a dream that still matters. When Tricia Paoluccio arrives as Dolly, she lights up the stage with charisma and authenticity, channelling Dolly’s trademark warmth, wit and heart. It’s a simple setup, yet the connection between the two gives the story its spark. Kevin’s world feels close to home, with parents who adore him but don’t always understand, a career that’s gone sideways, and that one dream he’s still holding onto.
The supporting cast adds colour and texture throughout. Kellie Rode shines as Kevin’s well-meaning mum, while Bailey Dunnage and Laura Joy Bunting bring playful warmth as Jeremy and Tish, both lending impressive harmonies and musicianship. Their onstage rapport creates a sense of intimacy that makes the whole production feel alive and spontaneous.
Musical direction by Andrew Worboys is a highlight, blending Dolly’s iconic hits with arrangements that keep the audience tapping along. The band, featuring Tina Harris on bass, Luke Herbert on drums and Ash Murdica on guitar, delivers the perfect mix of polish and personality, keeping the sound rich and heartfelt from start to finish.
Visually, the production is a delight. Paul Wills’s set design feels like stepping into someone’s nostalgic daydream, full of vinyls, knick-knacks and that irresistible touch of rhinestone sparkle. The costumes, crafted and supervised by Jenni Langford, strike the perfect balance between country charm and theatrical flair. Jason Bovaird’s lighting design adds warmth and atmosphere without ever pulling focus, while James Maxfield’s choreography finds that sweet spot between humour and heart.
What makes the story so charming is that it never tries too hard. It doesn’t set out to reinvent the jukebox musical or deliver a grand statement. It simply opens its arms and lets you in, making you smile, laugh and maybe shed a quiet tear. There’s an easy self-awareness to it, a wink that says, “We know what this is, and we’re having fun.”
Beneath all the sparkle, it’s really a story about kindness, courage and connection, timeless themes that remind us why Dolly’s music still resonates so deeply.
There were plenty of musical highlights, but the crowd favourite had to be Jolene. The energy lifted as the audience sang along, proving that some songs truly never lose their power. And when Paoluccio performed I Will Always Love You, she stayed beautifully true to Dolly’s original version, keeping it heartfelt and meaningful without drifting into the vocal theatrics of the Whitney Houston remake. It was a moment that captured Dolly’s essence perfectly, sincere and full of soul.
By the end, the entire theatre was buzzing. The laughter, the clapping along and the joyful atmosphere carried right through to the curtain call. Everyone walked out lighter than they walked in.
Here You Come Again is the kind of show that reminds us why live theatre matters. It is escapism at its best, two hours of laughter, nostalgia and music that hits right in the heart. Whether you grew up on Dolly or you are discovering her through this show, you will leave smiling, singing and maybe believing a little more in yourself too.
Here You Come Again is playing at the Comedy Theatre in Melbourne for a strictly limited season, so put on your cowboy boots, grab your friends and get ready for a night that is sweet, sassy and straight from the heart. Dolly would be proud.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit hereyoucomeagain.com.au.
