Everybody’sTalking About Jamie

Zenith Youth Theatre Company’s,

“Everybody’s Talking About Jamie”

 Book & Lyrics by Tom Macrae, 

Music by Dan Gillespie Sells,

From an idea by Jonathan Butterell.

Directed by: Scott Rogers,

Musical Director: Roy Page, 

Choreographers: Julie Dallimore & Delia Lee,

Director’s Assistant: Karen Messer,

Assistant Musical Director: Michelle Tucker.

Staged at Kingswood School Theatre, Kingswoood, Bath.

As seen by Bob Allen, NODA SW District 14 Representative

on Thursday, 10th July, 2025

PLEASE NOTE:

Any observation made by the reviewer can only be based on what he sees at the performance in question. The reviewer may have received information in advance of the performance, and it is inevitable that his assessment will be affected by that knowledge.

The N.O.D.A. Representative’s intention is to give an objective critique of the overall production and in particular the performance viewed. It should be remembered that any review of this nature can only be objective as far as the techniques used during the performance observed. Any criticisms expressed may not have been valid at other performances and are only made to encourage higher standards in Amateur Theatre.

It is hoped that the audience’s appreciation of your efforts will have given everyone a lift and encouraged you to greater achievements in the future and that the observations made by the reviewer will prove helpful in improving future productions.

 

This stage musical centres around a Coming-of-Age story, and was inspired by the 2011 British Television documentary “Jamie: Drag Queen at 16”. It follows the true life story of 16 year-old schoolboy, Jamie Campbell, as he overcomes prejudice and bullying to step out of the darkness and become a drag queen. It has become a classic choice for many youth groups which respond fondly to the themes found within the script. It is a major production for any group to present with many varied songs, dance routines and messages to convey to their audiences. Any show which centres so much around a single character needs to be very careful about the balance it strikes. All major parts need to be of the same quality for it to work. It needs to be a genuine team show where every part is played as though it was the lead part. 

Throughout the whole show the stage was empty allowing plenty of space for song and dance. The back curtain was lit with rich splashes of colour and four strips of lights. I would have liked to see some scenery along the bottom just to off-set the movement of traffic behind the curtain which I know was a problem due to space. During the whole show the quality of the lighting was very good especially on “spots”, and overall illumination. Special thanks to the use of the individual illumination used on Pritti’s number “It Means Beautiful”. That subtle increase in light matched so well to her position on the bed. That in itself was beautiful! Quality work. There was a built in walkway which came and went from within the orchestra pit and this was handled by the cast with care and precision. All furniture was wheeled on and off by the cast within the dancing in between scenes. All was carried out with care and with silence. Congratulations to all cast members involved as this could only be achieved thorough plenty of rehearsal. The fact that the cast could still add a wonderful sense of speed and fun as well as “scene setting” speaks of their effort and dedication towards the show.  They now all realise that any part in a show is hard work but I hope they have enjoyed themsleves enough to want to do more. Well done.

Once again the standard of musical accompaniment was superb and controlled to match the singers so well. As an audience member their work was so enjoyable and the backing given to the cast was so supportive. Thanks to all of Roy’s musical team. 

All the cast were well costumed with school uniforms up until the “Prom” where we saw more colour and glitz. The character costumes were good and in keeping with the roles. The transformation of Jamie and the presence of the other drag queens was good. I felt the whole costume change of Jamie at the end of Act One on the walkway was difficult due to lack of space. I would have preferred if it had happened in the mid stage area but this is just personal preference. Also I would have preferred to see Loco Chanelle’s costume to be more “generous” and “floating”. 

Here was another version of the play which I have seen several times recently. Each version was different and enjoyable in their own way. But this was handled by the safe hands of Scott Rogers and his team. So I can almost sit back and just let the show wash over me! I enjoy my visits to Zenith as they are so team based and set a great example to the young actors about what can be achieved when working as a team.

Favourite musical moments for me:-

Hugo, Drag Queens & ensemble – The Legend of Loco Chanelle.

Margaret – He’s My Boy / If I Met Myself Again.

Pritti -  It Means Beautiful.

Jamie – The Wall In My Head

Favourite Cast Members:-

Margaret – Thoughtful, truthful & mature performance. 

Such a lovely singing voice. Your solo numbers were terrific. Congratulations.

Ray – really brought this difficult role to life! Loved your work with Margaret.

Hugo – World-worn character brought to life. Well done!

Pritti – Loved every entrance of yours as you brought so much energy to the role. Such a good foil for Jamie with a beautiful singing voice. 

Jamie – Well done Zach! You made the character very real. Loved your singing voice and your passion. You worked very hard in the role and deserve every good comment you will be bound to receive. Be grateful to the cast for helping to make you look so good and the team for guiding your way. 

Sincere Congratulations!    

Thanks again for the hospitality shown towards my guest and I and for the informal chats in the interval. 

Kind regards, 

Bob Allen.

NODA SW. District 14 Representative.

N.B. These comments solely reflect the view of the representative and can only relate to the performance seen.

 

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