Everybody's Talking About Jamie

“Everybody’s Talking About Jamie” is a stage musical based on the true-life story of a Sheffield teenager as he overcomes prejudice and bullying to become a Drag Queen. Book and Lyrics are by  Tom MacRea, the Music by Dan Gillespie Sells and it was adapted from a BBC3 documentary called “Jamie – Drag Queen at 16” by Jenny Popplewell.

MADS’ Set had appropriate projected pictures for each scene on the cyc and various trucks wheeled on stage. One truck became caught on the tabs which held proceedings up considerably – it was for a very short scene so one wonders why it was necessary in the first place? Props such as classroom chairs and kitchen table & chairs were swiftly set by cast and stage crew. Costumes were of the era with some school blazers among the students, although mostly just white shirts and blue ties. The Drag Queens’ show costumes were weird and wonderful while Jamie’s red dress and shoes were traditional for the role (I don’t know how he managed to walk in such high heels!? Sound was mostly good except for Claire McVeigh who was inaudible. Lighting was acceptable.

Adam Gracey dyed his hair blonde for the part of Jamie New, as has become expected since the West End production. As he is very tall, Adam looked suitably awkward as he attempted to adapt to walking in his new very high heeled shoes and wear a dress! His story, from the wishing to the realisation of his dream to become a drag queen, covered all the expected changes of mood – nervous, ambitious, determined daring – while including lots of comedic moments. His vocals were good and, as he has sometimes been a choreographer in the past, his dancing was excellent as expected. It was a treat to see him gain confidence in his sexuality as the show progressed and he had good rapport with fellow students, especially best friend Pritti Pasha played by Meadhbh McGrail. As a Muslim, she was also picked on by other students for being “different”. Aiming to study to become a doctor, Pritti was a bright and brainy girl but Meadhbh showed her kind character as she encouraged Adam to “be himself”. Her solo number – “It means Beautiful” was a beautifully sung ballad. Tammy Sharpe took the role of Jamie’s mother Margaret. As a single parent, she had always been a devoted mother – her rendition of “He’s My Boy” was lovely. She also showed a kind and loyal relationship with Ray (Emily Dempsey) who was always by her side as a sharp witted and fun-loving friend. The two of them shared some great outspoken dialogue!

Michael Murray played Hugo/Loco Chanelle, who was a retired Drag Queen and now shop owner who stocked drag outfits. Michael was convincing as a kind and generous man who was very encouraging to the young Jamie. Later – when he appeared alongside his fellow drag artists – he revelled in the role. Corey Harbinson, as faded queen Sandra Bollocks, played his somewhat clumsy and sarcastic part well with drag friends – Claire McVeigh as Tray Sophisticay and Jane Donnelly as Laika Virgin. Although all were jaded artistes they were encouraging and supportive to Jamie.

In school, Jamie’s class mates, Becca, Bex, Fatima and Vicki (Rheanna Mckinney, Ellan Gracey, Shirin Mouhsine & Rebecca Beggs) were all typical teenagers – loud, cheeky and fun-loving girls.

The boys- particularly Dean Paxton (Michéal Toman)- was a bully and taunted him in a spiteful way, and others -Mickey, Sayid, Cy and Levi (Tyler Headley, Iona McCnville, Mary Kate McKeag & Tyler Amos) followed Dean’s lead in taunting him too. The school Careers teacher Miss Hedge (Marina Morgan/Fionnuala Lennon shared the role) was a humourless and unforgiving woman who showed that she disapproved of Jamie’s way of life.

Poor Tammy (Jamie’s mother), who was divorced from his father (Andrew McCann) continually tried to cover for him to Jamie, who still hoped for fatherly support. Andrew played the prejudiced dad with a hostile sneer and refusal to have anything to do with his son. The show’s chorus of students were enthusiastically engaged in song and dance at all times.

Kieran Corr directed a pacey and fun filled show with great dedication to his young performers.

Claire Louise McMahon’s choreography was mostly energetic hip hop style, for which the young cast showed obvious enjoyment. MD Jonnathan McGuinness – “legend of the society!”- led his 6 piece band with expertise, keeping a good balance with singers.

During the few years that MADS has been a member of NODA I have been impressed with the great company spirit and have enjoyed travelling to see their productions. I thank them for all their hospitality and friendship and assure them that Jim McGuigan will be worthy as my successor.

 

The views in this report are solely of the author.

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