Everybody's Talking About Jamie

Wow! Curtain Call Production took to the stage with their brilliant production of ‘Everybody’s Talking About Jamie’, which was directed by Sean Johnson-Hargreaves. The set was dominated by a video wall, with the orchestra situated on top of the structure. The visuals used were great, from the realism of the classroom and Jamie New’s house to the more abstract moments, such as during ‘It Means Beautiful’.  The video wall was used to great effect at the end of Act One, with the reveal of Jamie New as Mimi Me. Other pieces of furniture were brought on as required to help set location, such as school desks and dressing tables. The scene changes were quick, which meant the production moved along at a great pace. Sean allowed moments throughout the production space to breathe, which did not impact on the pace. There was a great classroom environment created, making it realistic and believable. This was a production that was full of heart, which you could feel in all aspects of the production, from the creative team to the performers. Costumes were very good throughout, especially when it came to the drag queens, from the backstage looks to their more extravagant gowns.

Malcolm Forbes-Peckham was the musical director for this production and  led the orchestra well throughout. They were an absolute delight to listen to throughout. They were tight throughout, and in tune with the score and with Malcolm. The vocals from the cast were stellar throughout, with some nice harmonies.

Rhianne Stubbs was the choreographer for this production. The choreography was full on and was a delight to watch. The young cast attacked it and performed the choreography with plenty of energy.

Technical elements were great throughout this production. The sound balance between the band and cast was good, and sound effects were cued well (the ring doorbell was a stroke of genius). The lighting design was equally as good throughout. The video wall was great, transporting the audience to different locations throughout the production.

Serving charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent in abundance as the teen sensation Jamie New was Adam Cusack. Adam was perfectly cast in this role, and totally embodied the character. He was full of wit and confidence, yet was able to show Jamie New’s vulnerable side. It was a totally believable and credible performance from this young talent. Adam’s vocals were sublime and he had the audience in the palm of his hand. Everybody’s talking about Jamie? Everybody’s talking about Adam after this stellar performance!

Lucy Page gave a stunning performance as Margaret New. She played the protective mother so well, creating a believable bond with Adam. Lucy was raw and vulnerable, yet also showed the strength of Margaret New. Her vocals were great, and her storytelling through song was super, especially in ‘If I met Myself Again’ and ‘He’s My Boy’.

Natalie Kent did well as Ray, Margaret New’s best friend. She created a witty and caring character, who wanted the best for her friend. There was a warmth to Natalie’s character, which she was able to display in her scene with Jamie New.

Emma Frazer gave an understated performance as Pritti Pasha. She was grounded, which worked well against Adam’s performance as Jamie New. Their friendship was totally believable. Emma played Pritti with truth, and her performance of ‘It Means Beautiful’ was, indeed, beautiful.

Steven Coles was great as Hugo/Loco Chanelle, and created a great relationship with Adam’s Jamie New, becoming that mentor that Jamie New needed. Steven was able to command the stage, and gave a warm and witty performance. His vocals were very good as well.

The trio of drag queens, namely Chris Barker (Laika Virgin), Todd Bennett (Sandra Bollock) and Sean Clark-Wilkinson (Tray Sophisticay), were fabulous. They were motherly, quick-witted, and could read you for filth – after all reading is fundamental!

Natasha Dawe was great as Miss Hedge. She created a believable character, showing a great authority as the class teacher. Natasha’s vocals were very good as well.

Michael Burdin played Dean Paxton. Michael did well in this role, as the school bully. He was suitably sullen throughout, offering a nice contrast to the character of Jamie New.

The ensemble of young performers were a pleasure to watch throughout. They were committed to their parts, and added so much to this production. They created the right classroom atmosphere, and added greatly throughout. The routine performed during ‘If I Met Myself Again’ was well performed, adding to the story of the song.

Overall, this was an outstanding production, led by an extraordinary talent, supported by an energetic young ensemble. The direction was excellent, the choreography was fantastic, and musically it was superb. This was a production that will be remembered for a long time.

A big thank you to everyone at Curtain Call Productions for their kind invite and hospitality.

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