Everybody’s Talking About Jamie Teen Edition

In Barnsley, everyone really was talking about Jamie!! This stunning piece of theatre deserved it’s sold out audience and it’s standing ovation.  Set in Sheffield, the show tells the story of 16 year old  Jamie New, a wannabe drag queen.  From the moment the cast entered the stage and performed the high energy number  “And You Don’t Even Know It” it was clear we were going to witness something special to come.  Ellie Cooper, choreographer created some dazzling routines for these young performers.  

The class full of year 11 pupils were well controlled by Miss Hedge, played to perfection by Kayleigh Bridgewood. Her characterisation was wonderful, you could really tell that she wanted her pupils to follow their dreams, but also to follow the rules. The class bullly, Dean Paxton was played by Lewis Mower, and Lewis relished every moment of being able to push around his fellow performers. A strong performance from this talented actor. A big part off this show are the drag queens. Harrison Bailey played ageing drag queen, Loco Chanelle. Harrison did a great job in this very funny role. I particularly enjoyed ‘The Legend of Loco Chantelle’ where the shop mannequins came alive.

The role of Jamie’s mum, Margaret, was played by the insanely talented Olivia Ellis. I’ve  seen this show professionally a few times now, and I have never heard ‘He’s My Boy’ sang with so much power and emotion as Olivia’s rendition. One word, stunning.  Abbie Jill excelled as  Ray, Margaret’s best friend, and provided the laughs all evening and her comic timing was on point. Alexander Heron had the tough job of being the villain of the piece, and his portrayal  of Jamie’s Father was most unlikeable and an absolute joy to watch. Jamie’s best friend, Pritti was played by Kadie Akers. Katie’s portrayal was sensitive, mature and absolutely captivating. Her song, Beautiful, was one of the nights many highlights. How lucky Jamie is to have Pritti on his side.  

However, the night, quite rightly belonged to the powerhouse that is Harry Bladon as Jamie New.  On stage for 99% of the show, this young actor gave a performance  why above his years. Harry truly is a triple threat. He can do comedy and tragedy, he can belt out a song, dance, and walk in heels. The audience absolutely loved him, and quite rightly so. An exceptional individual performance. 

Congratulations to all involved in this brilliant production, especially Lucie Cooper, Charlotte McCamley as directors and Ellie Cooper, choreographer. 

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