Bringing Dolly Parton’s biggest hits to life, Melbourne audiences are set to be dazzled as the musical comedy, Here You Come Again, premieres at the Comedy Theatre tonight.
Following sold-out seasons across the US and UK, Here You Come Again make its Australian debut with Broadway star and co-creator Tricia Paoluccio in the role of Dolly, alongside Dash Kruck (Little Shop of Horrors, Jesus Christ Superstar) and an all-Australian ensemble and live band.
With Dolly’s own rhinestone-stamp of approval, the production follows a diehard fan, Kevin, who gets life lessons from a fantasy version of Dolly. With Dolly’s wit, charm, and timeless wisdom, he learns about love, life, and how to rise above life’s challenges, soundtracked by her most iconic songs, including Jolene, 9 to 5, Islands in the Stream, and I Will Always Love You, Here You Come Again.
Co-created by two-time Emmy Award-winning comedy writer and songwriter Bruce Vilanch, in collaboration with director Gabriel Barre and Tricia Paoluccio, Here You Come Again is a hilarious, feel-good musical you won’t want to miss.
The UK adaptation is penned by acclaimed British playwright Jonathan Harvey (Gimme, Gimme, Gimme, Coronation Street) and has been adapted for the Australian stage by Fiona Harris and Mike McLeish, with musical direction by Andrew Worboys, sound design by Marcello Lo Ricco and lighting design by Jason Bovaird.
To celebrate the Australian Premiere tonight (Wednesday 16 July), Here You Come Again is inviting Melbourne audiences to step onto the pink carpet hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under alumni Aubrey Haive and actor Kate Jenkinson, and take part in the Show Us Your Best Dolly competition.
Anyone who purchases an Opening Night ticket and arrives dressed as Dolly (or as the show’s protagonist Kevin in his signature double denim ensemble) will be eligible to enter. To participate, dolly-goers simply need to strike a pose on the pink carpet upon arrival.
Before the show, Aubrey Haive will select the top looks, with winners announced post-performance. Prizes include tickets to the October Opening Night return season, Comedy Theatre bar vouchers, and signed cast photos and programs.
“Here You Come Again is a delightful theatrical experience that leaves you smiling long after the final curtain.” – What’s On Stage
Here You Come Again will play the Comedy Theatre, Melbourne (12 – 20 July | 23 October – 2 November), Regal Theatre, Perth (22 – 31 August), Theatre Royal Sydney (12 – 28 September), Newcastle Civic Theatre (20 – 23 November), Canberra Theatre Centre (27 – 30 November), and Her Majesty’s Theatre, Adelaide (6 – 14 December). For more information, visit: www.hereyoucomeagain.com.au for details.
Image: The Cast of Here You Come Again (Melbourne, 2025) – photo by Cameron Grant