Dolly Parton Musical Confronts Homophobic Outbursts in Theaters

Intolerant theatergoers: just stay home

If you're thinking about catching a show that's anything but ordinary, brace yourself. The creators behind Dolly Parton's jukebox musical have something clear and unwavering: if you're homophobic, this isn't your theater. The show, called *Here You Come Again*, has hit UK stages only, unfortunately, it keeps getting disrupted by intolerant folks.

This lively production, penned by two-time Emmy winner Bruce Vilanch and directed by Gabriel Barre, stars Tricia Paoluccio. It's been specially tweaked by playwright Jonathan Harvey just in time. The story? It follows a Dolly Parton fanatic who finds comfort and guidance from an imaginary Dolly herself. With a storyline steeped in positivity and inclusivity, it's sadly faced some ugly interruptions due not homophobia.

Stevie Webb's outburst goes viral

Stevie Webb, an English actor shining in this musical, recently took his frustration online via TikTok, detailing some nasty encounters. In a clip on February 9, Webb described how they've had no choice but toss out folks spewing anti-LGBTQ+ hate.

Webb could hardly believe it, sharing, "Just this week in Manchester, we had someone booted out. They were shouting hateful slurs. By Wednesday, a whole show hit pause because a woman was so offended by a gay character. You wouldn't believe it." Webb noted these incidents have been especially common at London's Riverside Studios.

Production fights back against bigotry

With attention growing, show's producers released a statement on February 11, firmly denouncing this behavior. They highlighted, "Anyone expressing intolerant views? They've got no place here. They'll be removed on sight. We're firmly against all prejudice and celebrating inclusivity and respect that *Here You Come Again* stands."

Though Webb got a ton and support following video, he pointed out he had sift through a barrage awful comments. He mused, "That's part and parcel, isn't it? It's just life."

Tackling hate head-on

In another video, Webb addressed why he's focusing on a small group that causes trouble when most people support them. Drawing from something British actor and writer Stephen Fry once said, Webb noted, "Imagine a crystal-clear pool. A tiny speck floating around? That's all you notice."

Webb's main worry? The enjoyment and experience everyone else. "It throws everyone off and impacts their experience," he said, tossing a sharp message those offended by show: "Sorry about your life, but there's no refunds!"

Championing inclusivity

These ongoing interruptions highlight challenges productions celebrating LGBTQ+ themes face. Webb was floored that a show based around Dolly Parton, a fierce LGBTQ+ ally, has sparked such backlash.

"It's an eye-opener," Webb said. "We live in this bubble in entertainment, but traveling around reveals so many people can't even handle seeing a gay person onstage—it boggles mind."

No matter, *Here You Come Again* isn't budged in its dedication inclusivity and acceptance. The creators and cast remain rock-solid against intolerance, determined theater continues being safe, welcoming space—and one."

If you're keen on staying looped in on LGBTQ+ news and happenings, subscribing some newsletters offering global insights could come handy.