Explosion of energy, song and dance from the cast of Everybody's Talking About Jamie. Image - Supplied by Aberdeen Performing Arts
Now on its second tour, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie brings its spark and style to Aberdeen this week.
It is a heart-warming show that sizzles with sass and is sure to delight audiences, if the success of opening night at His Majesty’s is anything to go by.
Jamie New is 16 and confused about what is expected of his future, compared to what he dares to dream. He wants to be a drag queen but many, including teachers, pupils and family try to crush his dreams (or embarrass him) as his ambitions come out.
However, the steadfast support and encouragement of his mum Margaret - played by Rebecca McKinnis - gives him the strength and belief to follow his dreams.
Touching scenes with Ivano Turco as Jamies and Rebecca McKinnis as his mum Margaret. Image - Supplied by Aberdeen Performing Arts.
Love, joy and pain sit at the heart of this story and Ivano Turco who plays Jamie brings the character’s painful journey to life with a fresh, funny and sensitive performance.
Rebecca McKinnis genuinely stands out among the cast as Jamie’s mother Margaret. Her solo rendition of He’s My Boy is simply stunning and will touch the hearts (and bring tears to the eyes) on any mum in the audience.
Jamie’s adorable friendship with Pritti Pasha (Talia Palamathanan) is so heartwarming and Talia performs It Means Beautiful as a touching ode to her friend.
Jamie’s Dad (Akshay St Clair) plays the absent and bigoted father but in sharp contrast Auntie Ray (Sejal Keshwala) surrounds Jamie with love, humour and pride.
Kevin Clifton impresses as Hugo/Loco in Everybody's Talking About Jamie at His Majesty's. Image - Supplied by Aberdeen Performing Arts
Hugo/Loco Chanelle (Kevin Clifton) and three other drag queens (played by Anthony Gyde, Garry Lee and David McNair) provide Jamie with great advice and they bring humour, lightness and OTT costumes to the show!
Kevin Clifton seems to step easily into this new role for him and fans will be impressed with his acting and singing performance.
The ensemble are all talented performers, and their opening number provides an electric start to the show. The set is modern and monochrome with the box shaped desks reflected and cleverly moved around to play out in different scenes.
Life's a drag... and great fun in Everybody's Talking About Jamie. Image - Supplied by Aberdeen Performing Arts
New musicals sometimes unnerve me as I am never sure if I will enjoy them. There was nothing to worry about with this award winner. It is powerful and packed full of superb songs, wonderful choreography and splendid performances.
It’s a truly unique, uplifting show that will make you laugh, cry, sing and tap your feet and given that it is based on the true story of Jamie Campbell it’s even more moving.
Everybody’s talking about Jamie – and so they should be!
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is at His Majesty’s Theatre until Saturday, May 25. For information and tickets visit here
Review by Shona Byrne