Photo supplied by Aberdeen Performing Arts
I was not sure what to expect when I took my seat at His Majesty’s Theatre last night for Bruce Vilanch, Gabriel Barre, and Tricia Paoluccio’s new Dolly jukebox show - Here You Come Again. And yes, it took me by surprise, a very pleasant one.
The story is set in 2020 amid the COVID lockdown. Now don’t groan, as the situation and setting from which the story unfolds provides ample opportunities for fun and laughter throughout its two hour spell on stage.
Photo supplied by Aberdeen Performing Arts
The central character Kevin, performed last night by understudy Aidan Cutler, finds himself in a mid-life crisis, depressed and disinfecting every part of his lonely life in his parent’s attic.
Surrounded by memorabilia from life in his earlier attic years, it’s clear from the outset that Kevin is a huge fan of the iconic Dolly Parton who’s presence seems to loom larger than life in the set design.
A down on his luck comedian, with nobody to talk to and everything seemingly going wrong in his life Kevin asks himself What Would Dolly Do? And bang Dolly materialises like an angel into his lonely world to add light, advice on how to cope with hard times and a healthy cup of ambition into Kevin’s world.
Understudy Aidan Culter with Tricia Paoluccio and Charlotte York on stage at HMT last night - Photo supplied by Shona Byrne
From that point the story trots along at a gentle pace and to the audiences delight most of Dolly’s rootin tootin tunes add charm and foot tapping happiness to the musical.
Starring as Dolly Parton, writer, singer, and performer Tricia Paoluccio is a perfect Parton in every way. She walks the walk, talks the talk, sings the songs and certainly provides a performance that is full of the necessary Parton punch to help Kevin lift himself out of the doldrums.
Understudy Aidan Cutler framed Kevin perfectly as a man entering his forties, back at home, single, and without focus. He has the genuine look of a down on his luck comedian who just needs a break. Vocally his performance was strong, and he received a warm reception from the audience, but of course it was Paoluccio’s full-blown Dolly performance that got the warmest applause.
The supporting ensemble cast are talented musicians and skillful actors. They bring a quiet presence to the stage and add fun moments which help to ensure that comedy remains at the heart of the show as firmly as the Dolly Parton hits.
Photo supplied by Aberdeen Performing Arts
Fans of Dolly Parton’s music won’t be disappointed as all the favourites feature with Jolene in Act 1 and 9 to 5 which opened Act 2 being my favourites. Even if you’re not a Dolly fan you’ll likely find yourself leaving the theatre humming your favourite memorable tune.
This morning, I am back at my 9 to 5 penning this review with Dolly playing in the background, surely the sound of a successful show? The standing ovation was another sign of success and one the cast were delighted to receive.
Here You Come Again - The New Dolly Parton Musical runs until Saturday, 03 August.
To find out more information and tickets here.
Review by Shona Byrne.