Kings Theatre, Portsmouth – until 11 May 2024
Reviewed by Gill Gardiner
5*****
Based on the real life story of a 16 year old boy who dreamed about being a drag queen and attending his school prom wearing a dress, this is a heart warming celebration of identity, self expression and proving doubters wrong. After wowing the West End in 2017, the award winning musical is again touring the UK to huge acclaim with a hugely talented cast.
Ivano Turco takes on the role of Jamie in this production, from the moment he steps on stage you know you are in for a good time. Funny, vivacious and vulnerable, whether learning to strut in killer high heels, struggling with self doubt or taking to the stage as a drag queen, Turco captures all the emotions.
Rebecca McKinnis plays Jamie’s devoted and careworn mother Margaret, struggling to protect her son in a world that is trying to bring him down, she gives powerful and emotionally charged performances of ‘If I met myself again” and “He’s my boy”.
Thalia Palamamathan also gives a notable performance as Jamie’s best friend Pritti, another outsider who is unapologetically herself, an aspiring doctor who is more concerned with studying than prom planning.
Taking on the role of Hugo / Loco Chantelle is Kevin Clifton, Kevin gives a very sound performance as the retired drag queen, proving he has many other talents besides dancing. Former X Factor contestant Sam Bailey also shows that she is multi talented, giving a great performance as Jamie’s teacher Miss Hedge.
There is no doubt that everyone will be talking about this show for many years to come, full of humour, song and emotion. This is a modern classic of musical theatre, its strong messages of identity, expression and inclusivity all make it worthy of revisiting time and again.