Everybody's Talking About Jamie

Once again, the Lyceum theatre has welcomed Jamie back to his home city and what a joy it is for all Sheffield theatre goers.

The show is based upon the genuine story of Jamie Campbell, a Sheffield teenager who dreams of becoming a drag queen and of attending his forthcoming school prom in a glamourous dress. Despite being bullied and ridiculed by class mates, he shows that with vision and determination anyone can achieve anything they wish for in spite of apparently insurmountable odds being stacked against them.

This production is second to none and is of the highest standard. The cast are excellent. Ivano Turco as Jamie is brilliant – he can sing and dance and possesses the most amazing mannerisms making the part his own. He convincingly captures all of the emotions that a young person wracked with self-doubt must experience portraying his insecurities and general lack of self-confidence whilst being encouraged by his Mum Margaret (Georgina Hagen) and Hugo / Loco Chanelle (Kevin Clifton) to be true to himself whatever the emotional cost.

Rhiannon Bacchus took the part of Pritti, Jamie’s closest friend and together they travel on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. She too feels to be an outsider and somehow different from her other class mates but as she so rightly comments ‘Don’t wait for permission to be you’.


Kevin Clifton, Hugo/ Loco Chanelle, is blessed with a commanding stage presence, we knew that he could dance from his time as a professional on Strictly Come Dancing but who knew that he could also sing and act. He played his part to perfection being a very persuasive and positive mentor as he supported Jamie to fulfil his dreams.

Anthony Gyde as Laika Virgin, Garry Lee as Sandra Bollock and David McNair as Tray Sophisticay along with Loco Chanelle, ‘The Legs Eleven’ drag queens, collectively steal the spotlight. Together they demonstrate a glamorous, colourful and extremely amusing display of what can only be described as drag queen excellence. They are not on the stage for long but they are certainly memorable!

‹›

• Ivano Turco (Jamie New) and Talia Palamathanan (Pritti) Photo Credit: Matt Crockett
• Kevin Clifton (Hugo and Loco Chanelle) Photo Credit: Matt Crockett
• Anthony Gyde (Laika Virgin) Photo Credit: Matt Crockett

Sejal Keshwala takes the part of Ray, a practical and sensible character supporting Jamie and his Mum in the absence of Jamie’s father who sadly cannot understand why Jamie is not interested in traditional boys past times and is angered and embarrassed by Jamie’s vision to become a drag queen.

The Year 11’s are brilliant, their dance numbers choreographed by Katie Prince are precise and creative especially so when the numbers involve moving around props or scenery all of which was seamless.

Dan Gillespie and Tom Macrae are responsible for creating the music, book and lyrics and they have done a fabulous job. The songs are memorable, the story original and the lyrics and dialogue are fast paced, witty and extremely funny. The band were under the direction of Danny Belton and they managed to maintain just the right balance between themselves and the vocalists.

This is a wonderful show so if you fancy a good night out in Sheffield, grab yourself a ticket. You won’t be disappointed!

Sheffield Lyceum Theatre Until Saturday 20 April.