‘Everybody’s Talking About Jamie’ review
‘a production that left the audience craving more, and one that everybody truly is talking about’
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is the story of a teenager with dreams of becoming a drag queen in an unaccepting and unforgiving world. It is a story of overcoming prejudice and obstacles in order to find your authentic self, but ultimately, it is a story of hope, and Trevelyan College Musical Society’s production encapsulated that essence perfectly. This is thanks to Production Manager India Jubb, Co-Directors Robyn Bradbury and Bee Wilkes, Co-Musical Directors Amelia Brown (Vocal) and Jed Godfrey (Band), and the stage management team of Grace Campbell and Bryony Curley, who put together a fabulous show, full of light and sparkles (literally), and ensured an effortless run and that the show did indeed go on.
The cast was made up of an incredible ensemble, who filled the stage with joy and light, effortlessly performing James Flemming’s choreography, and whose comedic timing was smooth and irresistible - to top it all off, all with amazing Sheffield accents! Finlay Gatehouse delivered the naïvety yet simultaneous fearlessness of teenage Jamie, effortless alongside Rishika Senevirathne’s Pritti, whose stunning vocals and heartwarming presence shone beyond the stage. Joshua Brooks’ Dean acted as the perfect foil to Gatehouse’s performance, playing the bully with immense ease through his stance and facial expressions, undoubtedly owning every moment.
Ellie Kinch’s Miss Hedge was also exceptional, through her ability to shout at children just like a teacher. Her brilliant rapping in the opening number can also not go unmentioned! The duo of Eve Pearce and Hattie Teale as Margaret and Ray respectively were another highlight, both delivering mesmerising vocals and simultaneously comedic and heart-wrenching performances, leaving the audience in awe. Pearce’s ‘He’s My Boy’ was particularly phenomenal. You could truly hear a pin drop as she finished her final note. Jonathan Wilson-Downs was another standout through his ability to fluctuate effortlessly between the supportive figure of Hugo and the lavish diva of Loco Chanelle, with indisputable vocals and flair that left the audience desperate for more. He truly was a work of art!
Another outstanding element was the music, directed by Amelia Brown and Jed Godfrey and with a brilliant band who were the perfect accompaniment to the cast, playing each song with ease and confidence. Hannah Bellamy’s costume design was also impeccable, with everything from school uniforms to full-on drag. Teresa Von Muhlen’s set design was simple yet effective, alternating between a home, a classroom, a dressing room and a stage, each one done cleverly and convincingly. The lighting and sound design from Jonathan Wilson-Downs and Elizabeth Wooldridge Smith respectively further added to the atmosphere and transported the audience from the dining hall to an underground night club.
Ultimately, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is a joyful and upbeat show about hope and desire that everyone involved in this production seamlessly delivered. It was the perfect spouting of happiness for the winter and created an environment of warmth in the February chill. It is undoubtedly a production that left the audience craving more, and one that everybody truly is talking about.
By Alice Roberts.