Everybody’s Talking About Jamie at the Oxford Playhouse Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW

Reviewed by Joanna Woodburn

In perfect joyous style, the Oxford Playhouse is now welcoming the Musical Youth Company of Oxford back to present the renowned vibrant musical, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie! Showcasing the fabulous talents of over fifty local young people, you could not ask for a better way to spend an evening in the heart of this historical city.

Inspired by the remarkably inspiring real-life story of Jamie Campbell, a teenager from Sheffield, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie tells the tale of his trailblazing aspirations to be a drag queen. The show explores and navigates the complexities of teenage experiences as the lead character, Jamie New, as well as his peers, feel the pressures of figuring out their futures. The show is full of warmth, fun and inclusivity, as our protagonist embarks on an emotional journey of self-discovery and identity. Despite being a production which is determined to never takes itself too seriously, there are many thought provoking and heart-wrenching moments, which are admirably perfectly pitched by this young theatre company.

Expertly directed by Guy Brigg and full of energy from the off, the show starts with the buzz and edge of a Year 11 careers class. Jamie is advised by his teacher that he is destined to be a forklift truck driver and told to ‘get real!”. As the cast launch into the brilliantly choreographed ‘And You Don’t Even Know It’, thus starts the fast flow of fabulous song and dance numbers which weave deftly around the unfolding story and have the audience clapping and toe tapping from start to finish.

The main characters are portrayed with such emotional depth (beyond the very many hilariously quick quips) that is very easy to forget the actors are actually from a youth theatre. Their commitment in bringing their own styles to their character’s identities is evident and brings real beauty to the production. Huge congratulations to Caleb Gill who is perfectly cast as Jamie New – his convincing, note-perfect performance is a real work of art! Hannah Peel is also superb as Jamie’s hugely supportive Mum, Margaret, with a performance full of warmth, honesty and breathtakingly mesmerising vocals. Giacomo Ruffman dives into his larger than life character, proud and funny retired drag queen, Hugo/Loco Chanelle with charisma and his performance of the gripping song ‘The Legend of Loco Chanel’ was a particular highlight.

Hats off to all the Ensemble as Jamie’s classmates too! The whole cast never hold back, really coming together and having great fun in doing so! The catchy tunes and energetic choreography really made for a dynamic show.

Filled to the brim with amazing young talent, Everybody’s Talking about Jamie is the perfect celebration of friendship and inclusivity and the perfect uplifting feel good tonic for a night out! The standing ovation at the end was utterly deserved – huge congratulations to the cast and crew!

Rating: 5/5
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is at the Oxford Playhouse in Oxford from Wednesday 9th April to Saturday 12th April 2025, for more information or to book tickets visit www.oxfordplayhouse.com or call the box office on 01865 305305

The Oxford Playhouse, 11-12 Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1 2LW