Grand Opera House York – until Saturday 24th October 2026
Reviewed by Michelle Richardson
4.5****
I was delighted to join York Stage for the opening night of its latest production, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, at the Grand Opera House York. Under Nik Briggs’s direction, this wonderfully talented company brings local and professional performers together to create musical theatre to a superb standard.
Based on an idea by Jonathan Butterell, with book and lyrics by Tom MacRae, music by Dan Gillespie Sells, it is centred around a 16 year old schoolboy. Loosely based on the remarkable story Jamie Campbell and his mother Margaret, which hit the headlines after he wanted to go to prom in a dress.
Set in Sheffield, the story follows Jamie New (Frankie Bounds) and his classmates as they consider their future careers. Despite being teased for being gay, Jamie dismisses Miss Hedge (Katie Spencer), and the computer’s suggestion that he become a forklift driver and reveals his dream of becoming a drag queen. This creates even more ridicule, especially from Dean (Cain Branton), the school bully. He is supported throughout this turbulent journey by his best friend and aspiring doctor, Pritti (Roxanne Hall), his mum (Joanne Theaker), and close family friend Ray (Julie-Ann Smith). His dream begins to take shape when he meets Hugo and his drag alter ego, Loco Chanelle (Grant McIntyre). Through the challenges and triumphs that follow, Jamie discovers his authentic self and gains the confidence to embrace who he is.
Bounds grows confidently into the role of Jamie, embracing the character’s highs and lows with infectious enthusiasm. He shows off both Jamie’s confidence and vulnerability. He certainly rocks those vibrant crimson red stilettoes and sparkly eyelashes. Theaker gives a heart-wrenching performance as a mother who is barely making ends meet, yet supports her son in any way she can. Her rendition of He’s My Boy is stunningly powerful, I had goosebumps just listening to her. Smith, as Ray, delivers the sharpest one-liners, making her the kind of friend everyone would love to have. McIntyre is outstanding, I loved his portrayal of Hugo, giving Right Said Fred vibes during the finale, and as Loco Chanelle he looked utterly gorgeous. The other drag queens also deserve praise, particularly for letting it all hang out.
The three-part revolving set moves seamlessly between a classroom, garden, kitchen, Pritti’s bedroom and the Legs Eleven nightclub, to name just a few of the scenes. A live band, led by musical director Jessica Viner, adds real energy to the production. At times, however, the music is too loud, unfortunately drowning out some of the lyrics. AJ Powell’s choreography complements the score, while the energetic ensemble fully commits to every role and shines in group numbers, especially Everybody’s Talking About Jamie and The Prom Song.
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie will make you laugh, may bring a tear to your eye, as it celebrates individuality, inclusivity and acceptance. The enthusiastic, captivated audience was wonderful to see and hear. Once again, York Stage does not disappoint and has delivered another must-see production.