Sydney’s Theatre Royal is alive with the sparkle of Dolly Parton in Here You Come Again, the feel-good musical comedy that landed on 12 September 2025.
Fresh from sold-out runs in the US, UK, Melbourne, and Perth, this Australian production, adapted by Fiona Harris and Mike McLeish, feels tailor-made for local audiences. The seamless tweaks, from cheeky Aussie references to relatable banter, make it seem like it was born right here, not imported. We went in cold, expecting a standard jukebox musical, but the first 15 minutes threw us a curveball with its quirky, lockdown-inspired setup. Surprise? Absolutely. And hilariously so.
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The story follows diehard fan Kevin (Dash Kruck), holed up in his attic during tough times, conjuring a fantasy Dolly (Tricia Paoluccio) for life lessons on love, resilience, and rising above. It’s not your average narrative (think heartfelt therapy session meets comedy roast), all soundtracked by Dolly’s icons like Jolene, 9 to 5, Islands in the Stream, I Will Always Love You, and the title track. Co-created by Emmy-winner Bruce Vilanch, director Gabriel Barre, and Paoluccio herself, with UK tweaks by Jonathan Harvey, it’s got Dolly’s rhinestone seal of approval.
Paoluccio is a revelation as Dolly (her voice really nails the country twang!) her charisma radiates warmth, and she delivers the diva’s timeless wisdom with spot-on timing. While Kruck holds his own as the everyman, blending vulnerability with comic flair, though a touch of over-the-top moments keeps it lively without overdoing it. The all-Australian ensemble and live band, under musical director Andrew Worboys, bring energy and precision, while Jason Bovaird’s lighting adds that extra shimmer.
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What shines is the humour. Sharp, self-deprecating, and utterly funny, turning potential schmaltz into uplifting gold. It’s wholesome yet cheeky, celebrating self-love and inner strength without preaching. Not flawless, the plot’s simplicity might crave more depth for non-fans. and the Covid-era setting is dating it quickly, but the joy and Parton’s spirit make it a ripper night out.
Catch it before it tours to Adelaide, Newcastle, Canberra, and back to Melbourne. Tickets at hereyoucomeagain.com.au. Grab ‘em quick for a dose of Dolly magic that’ll have you grinning ear to ear.