What do you get when you mix the music of pop icons Celine Dion and Dolly Parton with wildly imaginative storylines? A pair of audacious new musicals that pay loving, if unconventional, tribute to these legendary divas. Titanique and Here You Come Again showcase the unforgettable hits of Dion and Parton respectively, but in outlandish settings that upend the typical musician biopic formula.
Celine Takes on the Titanic
In Titanique, now playing at London’s Criterion Theatre, Celine Dion herself hijacks a Titanic museum exhibit to share her own eyewitness version of the doomed ship’s final voyage. Portrayed with chaotic verve by Lauren Drew, this fictional Celine inserts herself into the story, belting out her biggest hits along the way.
It’s just 100 minutes of unapologetic, crazy joy.
Lauren Drew on Titanique
Drew, a self-proclaimed Dion superfan, not only has to nail the singer’s bombastic vocals, but also gets to cut loose with plenty of improv comedy. Luckily, she says, “It takes a lot to embarrass me!” The show’s co-creators wrote Titanique to “spread a bit of joy” amidst dark times, and its queer sensibility and inclusive spirit aim to do just that.
Dolly to the Rescue
An equally surprising premise propels Here You Come Again, now touring the UK. In this heartwarming comedy, a depressed man named Kevin, drowning in wine and self-pity during the pandemic, conjures Dolly Parton out of a poster on his childhood bedroom wall. Dolly becomes his own personal guardian angel, doling out homespun wisdom and much-needed musical comfort.
People look to her for words of wisdom and a bit of guidance.
Tricia Paoluccio on playing Dolly Parton
For Paoluccio, who co-wrote the show and stars as Dolly, portraying her idol is a dream come true. With Parton’s blessing, she channels the essence of the country legend known for her self-deprecating humor and “very strong sense of self.” Like Titanique, Here You Come Again warmly embraces Dolly’s huge LGBTQ+ fanbase.
Joyful Tributes to Music Legends
While turning the jukebox musical formula on its head, both shows are crafted with deep affection for their central stars and the joy their music brings to fans. Energetic performances of beloved hits, cheeky humor, and an uplifting spirit drive these delightfully quirky productions.
- Powerhouse vocals: Lead actresses Lauren Drew and Tricia Paoluccio wow audiences with uncanny renditions of Dion and Parton’s unforgettable songs.
- Hilarious antics: Celine wreaks comedic havoc on the Titanic while Dolly dispenses down-home advice with plenty of winks and warmth.
- Heartfelt homages: Amid the laughter, both musicals celebrate how these iconic singers touch fans’ lives with their talent and outsized personalities.
Whether you’re a diehard fan of Celine or Dolly or just looking for a wildly entertaining night at the theater, Titanique and Here You Come Again deliver a life-affirming dose of music, humor, and heart. These fabulous divas are reborn as you’ve never seen them before, lifting spirits and inspiring joy with every note. Hop aboard and let your heart go on!
