I very nearly didn’t make it to this production. I was booked to attend the matinee, which just happened to coincide with that huge storm. To be honest, as the weather worsened, I wasn’t entirely sure I’d even make it there in one piece! But STAMPS reminded me just how much BFAME means to them, and how much these productions mean to their audiences, so I took a deep breath, gripped the steering wheel and headed straight into the storm! Am I glad I did? Very.

Based on a true story, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie tells the story of Jamie New, a teenager from Sheffield who dreams of becoming a drag queen. It’s a heartfelt tale of courage, determination and, above all, the importance of being true to yourself and having the confidence to stand up and be who you want to be, whatever life throws at you.

I always love seeing a production based on real-life events, particularly when the story is still relatively recent. This one is only around fifteen years old, yet I must confess that, before seeing this musical, I knew very little about Jamie’s story. What I found was a show that brought together elements of Rent, The Full Monty, Billy Elliot and Kinky Boots, with its own unique identity, plenty of heart and a very clear message.

From the very first scene at Mayfield School, you knew exactly who Jamie was, even before he had uttered a word. Amongst all the other students, your eye was immediately drawn to that sparkly bag. Here was someone who was clearly a little different, someone who wasn’t going to disappear quietly into the background!

Jack Chatten, as Jamie, was simply superb. Throughout the performance, you could see just how much passion he had for the role. He took us on Jamie’s journey from the darkness into the light, bringing the character’s vulnerability, determination and sheer joy to the stage. There was something genuinely moving about watching him take his bow at the end, and I could actually see how emotional he was. You felt that he had put his heart and soul into this production, and that emotion reached out into the audience. And I must give him special praise for strutting around so confidently in those killer red heels! That takes some doing!

The whole cast were absolutely splendid, telling Jamie’s story with real feeling and commitment. This is a show that needs more than just good singing and dancing; it needs its cast to believe in the story they are telling, and that passion certainly came across. There was plenty of emotion throughout, making Jamie’s journey all the more powerful.

There were a few moments when the lighting felt a little dim, and at times it was difficult to see everyone’s faces clearly. I did wonder during the first half whether this was a deliberate choice to reflect some of the darker moments in Jamie’s journey, before he found the confidence to step into the light and be himself. Perhaps just a little more light in places would have allowed us to enjoy even more of the expressions and emotions that the cast were bringing to the stage. It was only a small point in what was otherwise a thoroughly enjoyable and heartfelt production.

As usual with STAMPS, the direction, choreography and music were all on point. The show moved along at a lovely pace, with the scenes flowing naturally and the musical numbers bringing just the right amount of energy and excitement. There was a real sense of purpose to the staging, allowing the story to unfold clearly while giving the cast plenty of opportunities to shine. The choreography added to the vibrancy of the production, and it was lovely to see the ensemble working together so confidently. It’s clear that a great deal of thought and hard work went into bringing this story to life on stage, and STAMPS once again demonstrated their ability to put together a production that entertains while still delivering a meaningful message.

Everyone concerned should be immensely proud of what you have achieved. You have told Jamie’s story with passion, warmth and genuine emotion, reminding us all that being different is something to celebrate, not hide away. This is a story that deserves to be told, and you gave it the heart it needed.

A fabulous production, with a wonderful message and a leading performance that will stay with me for some time.

Now, where are my most fabulous sparkly heels? It’s time to put the bins out..

Reviewed by – Emma T.