Finding Hope in 'Here You Come Again'

The audience waits for the start of "Here You Come Again" at the Rinker Playhouse (NPBL Photo)

By Gerry Barker

Can a down and out, aspiring NYC comedian, trapped in his mother's attic in Longview, Texas during a pandemic, full of self-loathing and doubts, find inspiration to get his life back on track?

Yes, if your name is Kevin and your inspiration comes from the person you've worshipped your whole life -- Dolly Parton.

That's the gist of "Here You Come Again (How Dolly Parton Saved My Life in 12 Easy Songs)," now playing in the Rinker Playhouse at Kravis Center.

When Kevin (played by Gabriel Barr, also the director and co-author) hits his lowest moment, Dolly (played by Tricia Paoluccio, also a co-author) magically appears to give him guidance and hope through some of her most memorable songs.

Much like Clarence, the angel who has to earn his wings by helping Jimmy Stewart in the Christmas classic, "It's a Wonderful Life," Dolly helps Kevin navigate his personal struggles with work and romance as only country music can. There are actually 15 songs in all, spread between two acts, and they include favorites like the title song, "9 to 5," "Jolene" and "Islands in the Stream."

Ms. Paoluccio makes a terrific and believable Dolly, with a great voice, and Barr is the embodiment of the nerdy but loveable guy living with his mom. There's lots of humor to balance the heartache, and Dolly's optimism is as infectious (no pun intended regarding the play's pandemic theme) as her songs.

Unlike Clarence, Dolly didn't need to earn her wings. Instead, she affirms to Kevin, "I Will Always Love You."  That's just as good.
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"Here You Come Again" is at the Kravis Center’s Marshall E. Rinker, Sr.  Playhouse through December 31. Tickets are available at the Kravis Center Box Office and online at kravis.org.

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