Here You Come Again Review: Dolly Parton Musical Fails to Hit a High Note
Here You Come Again: A Dolly Parton Musical That Misses the Mark
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Dolly Parton’s music is a potent elixir,capable of transporting listeners to a place of joy,nostalgia,and heartfelt emotion. The musical Here You Come Again, which celebrates her iconic songs, aims to capture this magic. However, while it boasts a standout performance from Tricia Paoluccio as Dolly, the production ultimately struggles to find its footing, leaving audiences wiht a show that feels both over-earnest and surprisingly hollow.
A Star is Born (Almost)
at the heart of Here You Come Again is Tricia Paoluccio, who embodies Dolly Parton with a captivating blend of sly subversion and cheerful persuasion. Paoluccio is the undeniable drawcard and linchpin of the production. Her performance is an extraordinary feat, capturing the essence of the country music legend, even if her accent occasionally wavers. She manages to inject a much-needed spark into a script that, at times, leans to heavily into hagiography, limiting her ability to truly explore the complexities of her idol.
The Fandom Trap
The show’s central theme revolves around fandom - that powerful inclination to both idolise and, perhaps unintentionally, imprison our heroes. This is the engine that Here You Come Again attempts to run on. However, without a deeper exploration of fame’s id and its anaesthetising qualities, the effect becomes strangely off-putting, akin to an advertisement on repeat. The narrative feels like it’s hinting at more profound insights into the nature of celebrity and devotion,but it ultimately pulls back,leaving these ideas underdeveloped.
Patchy Performances and a Moping Protagonist
Beyond Paoluccio’s stellar turn, the performances in Here You Come Again are largely patchy and schematic. Minor roles often descend into garish caricature,detracting from the overall impact. Dash Kruck, as the male lead Kevin, struggles to muster enough charisma to counteract his character’s tendency towards moping and self-pity. This lack of compelling chemistry between the leads further weakens the narrative’s emotional core.
A Rhinestone-Flecked Abyss?
While Paoluccio is undoubtedly talented, and her performance would likely shine in a more straightforward tribute act, Here You Come Again feels like a vehicle that promises more than it ultimately delivers.The show attempts to be both too serious in its thematic aspirations and not serious enough in its execution. For devoted Parton enthusiasts, the familiar melodies and Paoluccio’s energetic portrayal will likely be enough to ensure an enjoyable evening. Though, for the rest of us, the experience might feel like staring into a rhinestone-flecked abyss, leaving us reaching for something stronger to cut through the saccharine sweetness.
Performance Details and Touring Information
Here You Come Again is currently playing at the Comedy Theater in Melbourne until July 20. Following its Melbourne run, the show will return from October 23 to November 2. The production is also set to tour to Perth’s Regal Theatre, Theatre Royal Sydney, Civic Theatre Newcastle, Canberra Theatre Center, and Adelaide’s Her Majesty’s Theatre. For specific dates and booking information,please visit the official website.