Joseph Rowntree Theatre – until Saturday 26th July 2025
Reviewed by Michelle Richardson
4****
Pick Me Up Theatre, an independent and one of York’s excellent am-dram groups, are currently staging Everybody’s Talking About Jamie at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre. Centred around a coming-of-age story, music by Dan Gillespie Sells, lyrics by Tom MacRae, this stage musical is based upon true life events. Jamie, a 16-year-old schoolboy, hits the headlines and upsets the apple cart, all because he wants to attend prom in a dress.
Set in Sheffield, Jamie New and his classmates are asked what careers they hope to follow when they are older. Jamie, who gets teased about his homosexuality, goes against the careers advice of forklift driver and reveals he wants to be a drag queen. With highs and lows along the way, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Jamie is fully supported by his best friend Pritti (Ruby Salter), mum (Gemma McDonald) and family friend Ray (Lottie Farmer), but it isn’t until he meets Hugo and his alter ego, drag queen Loco Chanelle (Zander Fick), that his dreams start to materialise.
The chemistry between Stevens, McDonald and Farmer, as a family unit, is strong. Farmer has the best one liners and I’m sure we all wished we had a friend just like her. McDonald performance was gut wrenching, seeing her struggle and supporting her son 100%. Her rendition of He’s My Boy was moving. Fick is stupendous when he is full on drag as Loco Chanelle. Not only does he look stunning, but the vocals match the look. I must shout out to the other drag queens, and I especially loved the deep voices. The performances from the whole cast were full of energy and engaging to watch.
Harvey Stevens is the star of the show, breathtaking as Jamie. He totally encapsulates the essence and spirit of the character he is portraying. He is absolutely stunning, all long limbed, legs to die for, and beautiful long slim hands. Not only does he sashay effortlessly across the stage in a gorgeous pair of 6-inch red stilettos but shows an air of vulnerability in the scenes where he is trying to find out who he really is. With some delightful physical movements, he is a star to watch out for. Harvey’s dad sat in front of me during the show, he was so proud, as he should be, of his son and took great delight in telling us all.
This production is supported by a live band, led by director Adam Tomlinson. They are raised up at the back of the stage and added an extra layer to the performance.
This is a witty, funny and emotional rollercoaster of a show. You can’t help but laugh and cry. A message and celebration of individuality, inclusivity and acceptance that deserves to be seen and heard. Make sure you buy tickets whilst you can for this Pick Me Up Theatre Production, showing until Saturday.