Last night, I had the absolute pleasure of experiencing a couple of hours of pure joy at Here You Come Again, the UK Tour, at The Opera House Manchester. Here You Come Again is, without a doubt, one of the most heartwarming and hilarious shows I’ve ever seen. It’s a work of pure genius, crafted with love around a subject we might prefer to avoid. Yet, I have never laughed so much. So let me try to unpack this delightful surprise.
What Is Here You Come Again About?
Here You Come Again was created by playwright Bruce Vilanch, alongside Tricia Paoluccio and Gabriel Barre. With additional material from Jonathan Harvey. This unique production blends sharp humor and engaging storytelling with Dolly Parton’s iconic music to create something truly special.
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Set in 2020, the story follows Kevin (played by Steven Webb), a 40-something Dolly Parton superfan isolating in his childhood bedroom at his parents’ home. His relationship with his controlling boyfriend is on pause, and life feels bleak. But there’s only one person who can pull him through—Dolly herself.
Like a guardian angel, Dolly Parton (portrayed by the sensational Emma Jane Fearnley) appears to help Kevin confront his past and embrace his future. With an abundance of beloved Dolly hits, the two embark on a hilarious and uplifting journey of self-discovery and positivity.
Here You Come Again, A Review of Pure Delight
In the first minute, I questioned whether this show was for me. By the fourth, I was completely in love—with Kevin, with the story, with the entire concept. I’m still trying to decide whether the genius lies in the writing or if Steven Webb is just naturally hysterical (perhaps it’s a match made in theatrical heaven), but every eye roll, leg flick, and perfectly timed gesture had the audience in stitches.
The set was brilliant, capturing the essence of a childhood bedroom frozen in time—fittingly so, since in 2020, none of us were going anywhere. Kevin’s mounting cabin fever was both relatable and comically exaggerated, setting the stage for the magical moment when Dolly arrives in a puff of smoke to turn his world around.
Set to a soundtrack of Dolly’s biggest hits, Kevin and Dolly embark on a musical extravaganza that can only be described as a hilariously heartwarming masterpiece. It’s a play, a comedy, a musical, and a piece of art all rolled into one—and it is nothing short of stunning.
Emma Jane Fearnley doesn’t just play Dolly; she is Dolly. Her voice is phenomenal, capturing the warmth and charisma of the country legend herself. And Steven Webb? He nailed it. His inner Dolly shone through in every note and every moment of comedic gold.
The ensemble was incredible and played an important part in bringing the story to life. Their energy and talent added depth and comedy to every scene.
This show is pure joy from start to finish, and yet, it felt like the shortest two and a half hours of my life. In the blink of an eye, the audience was on its feet, cheering and dancing along to the finale.
This is a show not to be missed.
Where Can You See It
Here You Come Again is playing at the Opera House Manchester until the 8th February, with tickets from £21.00, and then at…….
- The Sunderland Empire, Tue 11 Feb – Sat 15 Feb 2025
- New Wimbledon Theatre, Tue 18 Feb – Sat 22 Feb 2025
Disclaimer, I was gifted the tickets for review purposes. However, all opinions are my own. Check out where to park near the Opera House. See more theatre reviews.
