This weekend I went and watched the tour cast of Everybody’s Talking About Jamie at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. I’ve not seen this show before but it has been on my list for a long time. I’d only heard one or two songs before so I was going in with no ideas of what it was like and I found it very enjoyable.
Background
This is based on the true story of 16 year old Jamie New who dreams of being a drag queen as well as wearing a dress to his prom. Throughout the show we see Jamie go through a journey of self discovery which has so many highs and lows. Along the way we meet people who are and aren’t supportive of his dream and how much prejudice he has to contend with. The show first opened on the West End in 2017 and is currently on its second UK tour.
Cast
The cast of this show were fabulous, unfortunately didn't get to see Ivano Turco play Jamie, Finton Flynn was incredible in those red heels. He portrayed the emotion of playing Jamie perfectly as well showing the young silly side. Shobna Gulati and Rebecca McKinnis as Ray and Margaret New were a great duo providing plenty of laughs and love throughout. Talia Palamathanan was great as Pritti and complimented Finton’s Jamie throughout her voice was also incredible. John Partridge was great as Hugo/ Loco Chanelle he had such a presence on stage and was a great guidance for Jamie. One person I was excited to see was Giovanna Fletcher as Miss Hedge and she was amazing, even though her character isn’t the nicest I thought she was fabulous. Also the ensemble were brilliant from the classmates to the drag queens.
Music
One of my favourite things about this show is the music, some songs are catchy whilst others being meaningful and heartfelt. I loved the big opening number of And You Don’t Even Know which showcases everyone’s vocals and a good way to introduce characters and set a tone for the show. I loved the dramatic The Legend of Loco Chanelle. The Vogue esque Work of Art was unexpected and enjoyable. Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is one of the iconic numbers of the show and again a great opening to the second act. It Means Beautiful and He’s My Boy were such gorgeous songs.
Staging & Costume
The staging was simple but flexible which I loved because it means you can see what’s going on on the stage without it being overpowering. I loved the light up desks and how they were used throughout. I also loved at the end of the first act when we see Jamie as a drag queen and it’s a projection on the curtain which saves them so much time in hair and make up but looked fabulous and was a good end to the first act. Costumes in this are again very simple but I loved Miss Hedge’s shoes which are commented on throughout the show. Jamie’s drag queen look and his prom look are beautiful. Loco Chanelle’s outfit and make up is also fabulous. This show shows that you don’t need to have over the top staging and costumes to have an amazing show.
Theatre
This was my first visit to the Wolverhampton Grand and I loved it. The theatre is gorgeous inside with it painted walls showing different stories. We sat in the Grand Circle, row D and it was a great view we could see everything that was going on on the stage. The seats were very comfortable. All the staff were so friendly and helpful. Unfortunately before the second act some people had to be kicked out for their behaviour and it was well handled and normal disturbance. I would definitely go and see another show at the Grand.
Final thoughts
I enjoyed this show it had a perfect mixture of comedy elements and heartfelt moments. Every time I see a show I’m blown away by the talent I would recommend this show if you haven’t seen it. I don’t think I would necessarily see it again but I’m glad that I’ve ticked it off my list.
Stacey x
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