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Here You Come Again Brings Glitter and Joy to Melbourne

Here You Come Again has officially opened at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre, lighting up the stage with the sparkle, sass, and spirit of Dolly Parton. Featuring her greatest hits, this heartwarming musical promises a feel-good night out packed with laughter, toe-tapping tunes, and plenty of glitter.

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Here You Come Again Brings Glitter and Joy to Melbourne
Image: Here You Come Again, Australian Cast, credit: Cameron Grant

The story follows Kevin, a diehard Dolly Parton fan navigating a rough patch, he’s freshly heartbroken after a breakup with his boyfriend Jeremy, his stand-up comedy career is stalling, and he’s reluctantly moved back into his parents’ attic during lockdown. Surrounded by childhood memorabilia and old posters, Kevin finds comfort in his lifelong love for Dolly Parton. As he reflects on his struggles, Dolly herself suddenly appears, stepping out of the poster on his wall in a burst of glitter and smoke.

Here You Come Again Brings Glitter and Joy to Melbourne
Image: Here You Come Again, Australian Cast, credit: Cameron Grant

With Dolly’s wit, charm, and no-nonsense wisdom, she helps Kevin see beyond the mirror and look outward, reminding him to believe in himself and embrace the world again. Through her advice, and a soundtrack of unforgettable hits, Kevin begins to rediscover hope, humour, and happiness. The show is a love letter to Dolly’s legacy, blending storytelling with her most iconic songs, including Jolene, 9 to 5, Islands in the Stream, I Will Always Love You, and of course, Here You Come Again. Even lesser-known early songs like Little Bird, beautifully accompanied by slide guitar, add emotional depth.

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Here You Come Again Brings Glitter and Joy to Melbourne
Image: Here You Come Again, Australian Cast, credit: Cameron Grant

The set design is clever, with Kevin’s parents’ attic filled to the brim with personal detail. There’s even a touch of Dolly-style magic — wine turns into water, and anxiety meds vanish with a wink.

Let’s talk about the incredible cast. Tricia Paoluccio is spectacular as Dolly, her voice, presence, and warmth are extraordinary. She doesn’t just impersonate Dolly; she embodies her. Australia’s own Dash Kruck (Little Shop of Horrors, Jesus Christ Superstar) shines as Kevin, bringing a perfect balance of humour and vulnerability. They are supported by a brilliant Australian ensemble (Kellie Rode, Bailey Dunnage and Laura Joy BunUng) and live band (Andrew Worboys, Ash Murdica, Tina Harris and Luke Herbert).

Here You Come Again Brings Glitter and Joy to Melbourne
Image: Here You Come Again, Australian Cast, credit: Cameron Grant

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 feel-good musical that celebrates Dolly Parton and the power of resilience, humour, and hope. It’s about choosing happiness and finding the courage to make changes in your life, with Dolly cheering you on.

It’s impossible not to smile, this show is a joy from start to finish. I highly recommend it.

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Here You Come Again Brings Glitter and Joy to Melbourne
Image: Here You Come Again, Opening Night. Credit Kiddiehood

Here You Come Again – Australian Tour Dates

Melbourne – Comedy Theatre
From 12 July 2025

Perth – Regal Theatre
From 22 August 2025

Sydney – Theatre Royal Sydney
From 12 September 2025

Newcastle – The Civic Theatre
From 20 November 2025

Canberra – Canberra Theatre Centre
From 27 November 2025
Tickets via Canberra Ticketing

Adelaide – Her Majesty’s Theatre
From 6 December 2025

For more information

We try our best to provide accurate information on kid-friendly events around Victoria but do recommend parents check details directly to confirm dates, times, prices as some details may be subject to change.

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