Is everybody still talking about Jamie? The answer is an outstanding YES! Making another GRAND entrance 7 years after its initial run at The Crucible Theatre in 2017. Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is still as fresh and relevant as ever!

There was not one loose thread in what felt like a seamless production of a much love musical. Honouring the real life Jamie Campbell and his courageous journey in introducing his true identity with not only Sheffield but the World.

Owning the stage tonight was Ivano Turco whose sassiness and sorrow was portrayed in equal measures; with neither overshadowing the other. They’re sensational vocals carried each number with nuisance. His vocal & acting ability never wavered especially in emotional numbers such as ‘The Wall in My Head’. Powerfully echoing Jamie’s struggles whilst connecting with the big audience in the process.

Ivano’s onstage chemistry with Talia Palamathanan who plays Pritti, the best friend. Share a gorgeous intimate moment with each other in ‘It Means Beautiful’ which was delicately, yet powerfully sung by Pritti. Talia portrayed Pritti’s timid nature perfectly that when she had her big powerful monologue we all believed every word she said and felt.

Their friendship was a lovely contrast to the robust friendship of Rebecca Mckinnis who portrays Jamie’s supportive mum Margaret New and Shobna Gulati who plays Jamie’s honoury ‘dad’ Ray. I can’t mention Shobna without acknowledging her outstanding comedic timing, stealing every scene she is in, only if it is to say one line.

Another outstanding acting presence was from Giovanna Fletcher as Miss Hedge. A character who tries to squash Jamie’s exploration in finding himself. Her perfect performance made me remember Instantly why I disliked Miss Hedge.

A round of applause has to be given to John Partridge’s glamorous performance as Loco Chanelle, Jamie’s mentor in the drag world. Loco Chanelle was the epitome of glamour and worlds away from Hugo. When John wasn’t portraying his alter ego he gave a grounded portrayal of a man who had struggled to become who he is.

There was not one weak link in a relatively small ensemble who acted all over the stage and commanded the audiences attention. They executed Katie Prince‘s choreography perfectly and never once lost energy or character. Some other characters who demanded attention were the drag queens. Whose stage presence was something that couldn’t be matched, their witty yet encouraging relationship with Jamie was a joy to witness.

However, the knockout performance for me was ‘He’s My Boy’ a heart wrenching display of love, anger and despair from a mother. For which Rebecca pulled out all the stops- vocally and emotionally. All I can say is Bravo!

Matt Ryan managed to direct a highly energetic show, where each character was given their own story to tell. This was aided by a highly skilled band headed by Danny Belton, each musicians was as fantastic as each performer on that stage.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐