Here You Come Again

Milton Keynes Theatre is alive with rhinestones, laughter, and heartfelt moments in Here You Come Again, the delightfully unconventional musical comedy that unpacks personal growth and resilience through the lens of Dolly Parton's greatest hits. Written by Bruce Vilanch, Gabriel Barre, and Tricia Paoluccio, with additional material by Jonathan Harvey, this show is as quirky as its premise suggests.

Set in a single attic room during the Covid-19 lockdown, the musical revolves around Kevin, a down-on-his-luck comedian recently split from his boyfriend. Played with heartfelt honesty by Steven Webb, Kevin is a mix of endearing vulnerability and frustrating self-pity. His internal struggle comes to life with a delightful twist: a larger-than-life imagined Dolly Parton (Tricia Paoluccio), who appears to cheer him on with camp charisma, sage advice, and a glittering wardrobe that practically sparkles under the inventive lighting by Tim Deiling.

The attic, a nostalgic treasure chest of Kevin’s youth, is rendered in vivid detail by Paul Wills’ set design. The real gem, however, is the live band performing from the "roof" of the house. Their vibrant renditions of Parton’s iconic hits—from the bittersweet Jolene to the triumphant 9 to 5—inject the space with warmth and energy, bridging Kevin’s emotional lows with the musical highs. Jordan Li-Smith’s tight musical direction and Lizzie Gee’s playful choreography make the numbers irresistible, while a sprinkling of Richard Pinner’s illusions add whimsy.

At the heart of the show is Kevin and Dolly’s evolving relationship. Kevin may initially whinge about his misfortunes, but Paoluccio’s Dolly—part motivational coach, part fabulous apparition—steadily nudges him out of his self-imposed rut. Their chemistry is the show’s emotional core, blending humor and poignancy as Kevin learns to navigate heartbreak and rediscover his worth.

The production’s unusual format—a two-character play bolstered by a rooftop band—feels fresh and intimate. While some moments of comedy lean heavily on the stereotypical, the genuine affection for Dolly and her empowering ethos shines through, making even the cheesiest gags forgivable.

For a musical set in the isolation of lockdown, Here You Come Again is anything but confined. It bursts with joy, clever writing, and Dolly’s indomitable spirit, reminding us all to pick ourselves up—preferably with a sequinned boot.