My Fair Lady – Cloc Musical Theatre Company ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

My Fair Lady – Cloc MTC

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Wednesday 22nd October 2025 – Opening Night

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Studio 55 Photography

‘My Fair Lady’ is a wonderful show. The musical is set in London, in that great period at the beginning of the 20th century, when the Empire, King and country were all Great with a capital G, and tells the story of a famous English Language phonetician, Henry Higgins, who makes a bet with friend and fellow linguist, Colonel Pickering, that he can turn a working-class flower seller into a high society lady in six months. The challenge is accepted, since Eliza herself the “guttersnipe” flowergirl wishes to learn to speak properly in order to work in a flower shop.

I have seen the show once before about 25 years ago with a star studded cast including Jonathan Pryce, Martine McCutcheon and Dennis Waterman, very nice you might say, but my point is that this cast from Cloc MTC could easily take their places, so polished and professional are their performances.

First off, this is a long show nearly three hours so get comfortable for a long but rewarding journey in uncomfortable theatre chairs!

The set is predominantly a huge screen showing scenes of London, Covent Garden, Ascot and general street scenes. This worked superbly with only a few props having to be moved on and off stage.

John Biddell plays Henry Higgins. One of the standout aspects of Johns’s portrayal was his ability to capture Higgins’ arrogance and condescension. Higgins is a character who is used to getting his way and sees himself as superior to those around him, particularly Eliza. John was able to convey this sense of superiority through his posture, facial expressions, and vocal inflections, at the same time he also showed Higgins vulnerability and humanity. John managed to show this complexity through his performance and particularly his interactions with Eliza.

Moving on to Eliza Dolittle, Audrey Hepburn who made this role unmatchable that is until Samantha Rogers took on the role, her fabulous voice and wonderful acting gave soul to the character. Her vocal range is incredible and she demonstrates excellent control. She brought Eliza to life in a way that few performers have before. Her performance was subtle and detailed and her singing had wonderful quality that draws the audience in and keeps them engaged. Her incredible voice, combined with her acting skills, made her portrayal of Miss Doolittle truly unforgettable. She left a lasting impression on us.

Matt Beebe made a lively, spritely, and considerate Pickering. A lovely clear voice and diction as well as a great stage presence helped his character along nicely. Hayley Howen as Henry’s mother, Mrs.Higgins was a delight, as was Stacey Muxlow’s Mrs Pearce. Alex Nash gives a wonderful performance as the lovestruck Freddie and his rendition of On The Street Where You Live was beautiful and really endearing.

The principals were supported by a large and enthusiastic chorus of all ages, filling the stage where necessary.

Producer Rosemary Ravenscroft has done an excellent job pulling together this mammoth show whilst installing a level of commitment and enthusiasm from what must be hours and hours of rehearsals, that is off the scale, this can be seen in the dance sections choreographed by Teresa Biddell which are superb and so in sync – perfect.

The orchestra led by Peter Wingate were excellent if not somewhat over powering in a few sections. Lighting by Going Dark was as usual “spot on”.

Charlie & The Chocolate Factory – Lichfield Musical Youth Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Charlie & The Chocolate Factory – Lichfield Musical Youth Theatre

Lichfield Garrick

Tuesday 23rd September 2025

By : Nigel Gambles

Photography by : LMYT

Charlie and The Chocolate Factory The Musical opened on the West End in 2013 where it ran for 3.5 years but it took another 10 years for the show to tour the UK. The show is based on the Roald Dahl book which tells of Charlie Bucket who spends his day dreaming of chocolate. When Willy Wonka announces a chance for 5 children to win a tour around the famous chocolate factory, it sends the world into a frenzy but with Charlie’s family struggling to afford just one chocolate bar it looks unlikely that they would win, let alone the chance to win the biggest prize of them all.

The show is one of two halves. Act 1 focuses on the hunt for the winning tickets, Charlie’s daily struggles and his relationship with his Mother and Grandparents also the burgeoning friendship with the chocolate shop owner. As each child that wins a ticket they get a song that introduces their character with an introduction from reporters. Charlie finding the ticket seemed a little anti-climatic and the magnitude of this event glossed over swiftly. The second act however is where the magic begins and we meet Willy Wonka and venture into the Chocolate Factory itself. The use of a giant projection screen really helps us visualise the factory and the interior along with some fantastic props (I won’t spoil it).

The cast are all very strong. Zach Andrews plays Willy Wonka and did so with a good mix of eccentric and genius, giving a strong performance beyond his years, his vocals strong and beautifully delivered. Brandon Westaway plays Charlie with fantastic enthusiasm, again his singing was excellent. Zephan Rowe took on the role of Grandpa Joe who gets out of bed for the first time in years to take Charlie on the trip of a lifetime. Zephan portrayed Grandpa Joe with a huge amount of heart and had the audience rooting for him from the start. I also enjoyed the portrayal of Mrs Bucket, played by Eleanor Foulds. My favourites had to be the Oompa Loompa’s fantastic make up and energy, oh and their poor knees you’ll see what I mean

The rest of the golden ticket winners Eliza Bullock as Veruca Salt frightening , Leo Stubbington as Mike Teevee and Isabella Hamilton as Violet Beaurearde (make sure you don’t miss the bit where she balloons in size) all play their roles with enthusiasm and skill.

The rest of the cast play their parts with such energy and enthusiasm and vocally fantastic you’ll be tired just watching them.

This is a great show professionally staged directed and choreographed with passion by Oliver Rowe and Jemma Tiso-Johnson and full credit must also go to the backstage team led by Matthew Garfield and to musical director and the orchestra led by Ian Stephenson.

Grease – Tudor Musical Comedy Society ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Grease – Tudor Musical Comedy Society

Sutton Coldfield Town hall

Monday 22nd September – Dress Rehearsal

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Studio 55 Photography

We all know Grease we’ve seen the film with Danny, Sandy, T-Birds and Pink Ladies. Tudor MCS are, and will be performing it in style and you will be off to the Town Hall like “Greased Lightning” to watch it.

The show starts at the 25 year reunion for Rydell High, I don’t think I’ve seen this start before and I’ve seen the show more times than I can count. Anyway, this is the original opening with Eugene giving a rousing speech mentioning those who are missing. This segues ways into the T Birds and Pink Ladies singing a version of the Rydell Alma Mater, leading into a very energetic rendition of “Grease is The Word”

Its now flashback time, so off we go to Rydell High where the students are returning after summer break. Danny leader of the T-Birds meets up with the rest of the gang and reminisces about his summer on the beach and the girl he met, played by Elliot Scott-Lolley. He captures the strutting tough guy leader, his vocals are strong and he sings with confidence. Meanwhile Sandy played by Mia Davies is a school newcomer and is introduced to the Pink Ladies and she also tells of her summer romance while being put down by Rizzo, played by Charlotte Raybould. This brings us to the duet “Summer Lovin” Mia plays Sandy with a shy naivety her voice lovely crisp and tuneful.

Looking at the rest of the cast first, the T. Birds Doody, Roger, Kenike and Sonny played by Alex Nash, James Rowney, Dan McCloskey and Alex Tuckwell they absolutely nailed the camaraderie of the gang and had a perfect natural feel. Their singing was strong and energetic their individual songs also strong and effective. Now the Pink Ladies Rizzo, Frenchie, Marty and Jan played by Charlotte Raybould, Emily Loftus, Samantha Rogers and Eloise Tanley. Looking resplendent in their pink jackets were all perfect. Charlotte nailing the cynical strong alpha female, Emily looks the part of Frenchie the wannabe beauty therapist, Samantha perfect for the role of Marty, the worldly-wise member of the ladies with much experience in wine, men and cigarettes. Eloise as Jan plays the uncool member of the ladies who doesn’t stop eating excellently. All these ladies have fantastic voices singing with passion.

The rest of the cast play their roles with and gusto, bringing energy to the dance sequences and power to the group vocals indeed “Hand Jive” is just that and encourages audience participation, so you better brush up on your hand jive.

Juliet Fisher’s direction of the show is excellent and you can see her passion and commitment throughout. The cast also show this in their polished and slick delivery. Connie Mortiboy’s choreography is fantastic and the hours of practice show in the flowing and energetic dance routines. Full credit must also be given to the costumes makeup and backstage crew, also to Going Dark Theatrical Services for their excellent and atmospheric lighting.

Lichfield Operatic Society – Rock of Ages ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Rock Of Ages – Lichfield Operatic Society

Lichfield Garrick

Monday 15th September 2025 (Dress Rehearsal)

By : Nigel Gambles

Photography by : Studio 55 Photography

Rock of Ages is ultimately a love story set in the 80’s in LA. Drew (Lewis Collier-Smith) is ‘just a city boy, born and raised in South Detroit‘, hoping to make it big as a rock star. He meets ‘small town girl‘ Sherrie (Shannon Robinson) who also has a dream, she wants to be a famous actress. Like most stories, their tale of falling in love isn’t an easy ride.

The story takes place between two clubs on Sunset Strip. The show was loud, bright and it definitely was rocking!

Lonny (James Pugh) introduced himself and the show, not only was he a ‘barman’ at The Bourbon Bar, he was also the Narrator. He absolutely stole the show for me, he was hilarious, so at ease with the audience, he was OTT which made him more funny, he was loud and loveable. Shannon Robinson is Sherrie, she is perfect with the right amount of naivety for the girl in the big city, and she has the most gorgeous voice. Lewis who plays Drew the bus boy who just doesn’t know how good his voice really is produces a great performance of the shy and quiet and unassuming singer with a strong and powerful voice.

This show is a different kind of musical, it definitely doesn’t take itself seriously. It was fun and naughty, very naughty in parts! It was extremely cheesy, but I love cheese. It was very tongue-in-cheek and has a concert-style feel throughout. Adam Merrall plays Stacee Jaxx and he gives a great performance.

What makes this show fantastic is the cast, all of whom are fantastic. The singing and of course the soundtrack. The cast are all stars, their voices are fantastic.

Director Emma Hall has done an amazing job with the cast, every single member was full of enthusiasm and having the time of their lives. Charlotte Jervis on choreography duty yet again delivers some truly amazing and perfectly synchronised routines. Finally David Easto, musical director and band leader. The band were spot on and their renditions of the 80’s classics perfect.

The part of the show that had everyone standing up and dancing in the aisles is the soundtrack. The massive 80’s hits that the whole musical is set against. Journeys ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ was sung towards the end, bringing the audience up on their feet, clapping and singing along. Other massive hits includes ‘Built This City’, ‘I Want To Know What Love Is’ and ‘The Final Countdown’.

Rock Of Ages is a show I won’t forget and it’s rocking! It was loud, fun, naughty and brilliant!

Beauty & The Beast – Script Youth Musical Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Beauty & The Beast – Script Youth Musical Theatre Company

Crescent Theatre

Thursday 11th September 2025 – Dress Rehearsal

By : Nigel Gambles

Photography by : Studio 55 Photography

This familiar story, is a magical tale of mystery, sorcery, dreams, sadness, longing, and a just-in-time happy and moving ending.

A young prince, cursed and imprisoned in the form of a beast must find true love before the last rose petal falls to break the spell.

The true love appears in the form of Belle played by Erin Phillips, a wonderful singer with an amazing voice, a village girl who is being pursued by the narcissistic and arrogant hunter Gaston played to perfection by Findlay Laidlaw a strong and powerful vocalist, along with his side-kick LeFou the talented and hilarious Evie Rice, more on Evie later.

Belle refuses Gaston’s advances, yet the other village girls Effie Jobling, Isabelle Round and Darci Rice very amusingly fawn for his attention and affections.

Belle comes face to face with the Beast Samuel McCormac in his castle, whilst looking for her father Maurice, Zachariah Scrivens, who has been captured and selflessly ends up swapping places to gain his freedom. Belle soon befriends a host of wonderful characters in the ‘enchanted’ castle, who hope ‘this is the one to break the spell’. This magnificent group – Lumiere (Kian Haden), Mrs Potts (Chloe Mason), Chip (Oliver Malkin), Cogsworth (Amiee Whillis), Madame De La Grande Bouche (Jess Lewis) and the constantly amusing Babette (Louise Heard) are forever memorable.

Despite a turbulent beginning, a deep friendship develops between Belle and Beast and eventually the curse is broken. The true prince is revealed, Gaston is seen off, and peace, dance and merriment ensue. Therein lies the underlying message of the play: inward characteristics such as kindness should forever be valued over superficial qualities like appearance.

Forgive me for not mentioning by name the many other young actors, but they were all fantastic and the final number including the whole cast was a total delight.

Well done to Louise Farmer for such creative, enthusiastic production and once again ensuring that she got the maximum enthusiasm and effort from the whole cast and Kelly McCormac for the meticulous choreography. A very special mention to Evie Rice who upon finding out the group would be doing Beauty and the Beast jumped at the chance to design and make Belles dresses as part of her finals at BOA, they are superb.

I have always thought that putting one’s trust and faith in children and young people brings out their best. Script Youth Musical Theatre certainly helps in this by promoting positive growth opportunities such as confidence building, creativity, communicating and working with others, as well as enabling the skills of acting, singing and dancing.

Witness For The Prosecution – Sutton Arts Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Witness For The Prosecution

Sutton Arts Theatre

Tuesday 9th September 2025 (Dress Rehearsal)

By : Nigel Gambles

Photography by : Studio 55 Photography

As I entered the auditorium this evening to take my place for Agatha Christie’s courtroom suspense drama, ‘Witness For The Prosecution’, I was greeted by an open set on stage. A courtroom, wooden benches for the defendant, barristers, etc, and a higher, central one for the judge. It looked both authentic and theatrical.

The play opened with three characters walking on to stage in darkness. A fight ensues and the lights come up revealing two policemen and one individual being dragged off stage as the stage empties a hangman’s noose dropped from the gantry somewhat setting the scene.

As with all shows I have seen at Sutton Arts the stage has to transform from one set to another thus creating gaps of darkness although these are shot and kept to a minimum.

Sir Wilfred Roberts QC played by Dan Payne Mr Mayhew played by Patrick Rayson both gave grounded and credible performances as members of the bar. I have to say that my contact with such personages has been very infrequent fortunately, but they both presented the stereotype to perfection. The same can also be said of Geoff Holman as Judge Justice Wainwright played by Andrew Tomlinson and Stewart Mathers as Mr. Myers QC. played by Alan Groucott

The accused, Leonard Vole played by Kieran Jenkins, was totally convincing and (without giving too much away), his tiny but excellently measured character change towards the end was superb. A very personable actor, and hit the nail on the head with this role. His wife, the “foreign” Romaine Vole was played with stylish arrogance, and given just the right amount of superciliousness by Laura Hinton.

l have to mention Greta played by Keyleigh Alison the over enthusiastic and starstruck assistant to Sir Wilfred lightheaded but confident and obviously self assured, who cant seem to find anything wrong with someone being accused of murder, perfectly played.

However, the acting and following direction, was far from “amdram”. Director Dexter Whitehead had worked well in creating the correct feel to this story, building the whodunnit element with skill. The first act was a little slow at times, but the characterisations were solid, realistic, and believable. The second act was swifter and more engaging, and I certainly had not guessed the entirety of the clever denouement.

This was a very strong ensemble cast and they all worked well to bring about this dramatic and very wordy script. I admit to never having seen the stage play before, and to not remembering the film, which I watched when too young to appreciate it. So, tonight I was watching the plot unravel for the first time, and it was quite fascinating.

Overall however, a sturdy and gripping piece of whodunnit theatre, performed by a strong and talented group, keeping one engaged and guessing right to the end [that is, if you don’t already know the story!].

Animal Farm – Aldridge Youth Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Animal Farm – Aldridge Youth Theatre

Aldridge Youth Theatre

Thursday 3rd July 2025

By : Nigel Gambles

Photography by : Aldridge Youth Theatre

“All animals are equal. But some animals are more equal than others.”

This is a very challenging show to put on especially when the cast is so young and may not fully grasp the underlying message of Orwell’s story but I need not of worried as the cast delivered an outstanding performance even though a couple of the cast had opening night nerves they coped admirably.

August 2025 will mark the 80th Anniversary of the first publication of the famous novella by George Orwell – Animal Farm.

The plot is well known – a group of exploited animals rebel against their human tyrant farmer and seize the land that they live on in the hope of creating a world where they can be equal, happy and free. However, as is so often the way when power shifts, they soon have to face a very alarming question – is the grass truly greener on the other side? The farm quickly becomes a nightmarish abattoir – where the rich get richer and the poor are exploited to within an inch of their lives.

Ava Hunt gives a masterclass as Squealer, the masterminding pig – cunning, ruthless and self-serving.

Our sympathies lie completely with the hard working and noble carthorse Boxer (Alex Wells), whose betrayal by the dastardly pigs is presented in Biblical proportions. The emotional response of his partner Clover (Charlotte Clements) is well portrayed.

Perhaps the most notorious character in the piece, Napolean, the dictator-leader of the new order is brought to life by Libby Humphries – a pompous and seemingly benign individual (the most dangerous tyrant of all) who believes his own propaganda and courts admiration from those who don’t see through the bluster and bumble.

The stage was split in two with one half dedicated to the storytellers who are on stage the whole time guiding the audience and playing and reading when not speaking. The other side of the stage is the farm indicated by hay bales and barn doors, this is where most of the play takes place.

The costumes for the animals were all black and headwear depicted which animal they were.

Production by Richard Mcnally-Reilly and his team was very good and creative using all the space available on stage and in the auditorium.

All in all this was an excellent show with good solid performances from every one involved with such a deep and humanitarian story the production could have floundered, but in this case the opposite is true.

Six The Musical – Teen Edition : Lichfield Musical Youth Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Six The Musical – Teen Edition : Lichfield Musical Youth Theatre

The Hub St Marys

Wednesday 2nd July 2025

By : Nigel Gambles

Photography by : LMYT

What a wonderful, colourful show excellently performed by the young company. I have not seen Six before and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The setting in St Marys Hub was absolutely the perfect place for it and the sound and lighting design by Sam Burkinshaw and Stephen Rainsford complemented it perfectly

The six wives filled the stage with their exuberant singing. The stunning costumes designed and made by Sue Broad were perfect showing the different personalities of the wives beautifully

As with all the shows that I’ve seen from Lichfield Musical Youth Theatre, the standard of performance, choreography, acting and overall sheen is of top priority, and this show has all of the above and an added fistful of sass and attitude.

The six wives of Henry VIII are Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves, Katherine Howard, and Catherine Parr. “Six” tells each of their stories in a very atypical fashion: the wives have all come together as part of a pop girl group, and they each sing a song about who has suffered the most as Henry’s wife. The winner will be the new leader of the group.

Evelyn Maymand plays Catherine of Aragon : The first wife of Henry VIII, was known for her strength and determination. She sings “No Way” and stands her ground despite her divorce. Evelyn was absolutely solid through out and set a high bar for the other queens to follow.

Anne Boleyn: The second wife of Henry VIII infamous for her beheading and she likes to remind you, was portrayed with great wit by Jess Horne. “Don’t Lose Ur Head” is such a well known number and Jess brought all the sass and energy this deserved.

Jane Seymour: The third wife of Henry VIII, often seen as the love of his life, was so beautifully played by Molly Bastable. She depicted the gentle and kind mother who died in childbirth with such emotion. Singing “Heart of Stone”, you would have needed one to not be moved.

Anne of Cleves: Maiya Ogden was the fourth wife of Henry VIII, known for her short-lived marriage to the king. This a difficult part as you need to be pragmatic and somewhat aloof especially when singing “Get Down”. Maiya was more than up to the task and totally nailed it.

Katherine Howard: The fifth wife of Henry VIII, was Beth Winspear. Beth was excellent as she took the audience on the journey of a young and naive girl who meets a tragic end. As she sang “All You Wanna Do” she showcased the desire for love and the unsavoury attention that can bring.

Catherine Parr: The sixth and final wife of Henry VIII was Molly Darby. Catherine was known for her intelligence and influence and Molly carried the characterisation with skill beyond her years. “I Don’t Need Your Love” was amazing.

All SIX girls performed to the highest standard and it was easy to forget you were watching a youth production. You could see clearly that each one had lived the part and were having fun.

Jessica Bennett is the Director and Choreographer and Oliver Rowe Musical Director of SIX and what a show they gave us. Technically as close to perfect as you could get. With spectacular lighting and great use of space, they got the very best from her undoubtably talented singers and dancers.

I would have to say that overall “Six” was a total triumph and a credit to all those involved

If you don’t want to lose your head hurry and get those tickets the show runs until Saturday 5th July with 2 performances each night 6.30pm and 9.00pm

Chop Chop..

https://thehubstmarys.co.uk/events/lmyt-six-teen-edition/

Legally Blonde -Script Youth Musical Theatre Company ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Legally Blonde -Script Youth Musical Theatre Company

Highbury Theatre

Monday 30th June 2025

By : Nigel Gambles

Photography by : Studio 55 Photography

As they say OMG where do I start. I attended the dress rehearsal for this show Monday night and I can promise that you are in for an absolute treat. I have seen the show a number of times performed by different theatre groups but I can truthfully say this was one of the best!! The energy and enjoyment just came off the stage in waves.

The show is based on the movie of the same name and follows the star of the show Elle Woods who seems to have it all, but then it all starts to go wrong when her rich boyfriend dumps her in favour of going to Harvard Law School. So determined to win him back she charms her way in to the same university. Whilst there she struggles with all manor of things but eventually with the help of new friends and her dog Bruiser she starts to realise her potential and sets out to prove herself. The story is a triumph over adversity and empowering female friendships.

Peyton Lockley who is making her lead debut plays Elle Woods. She is superb, her vocals are strong and clear and her dancing excellent. Peyton totally embraced the role and will blow you away. She has strong support from her fellow cast members Maddie Howard who plays Paulette the owner of the hair salon and forms a strong bond with Elle. Maddy has a strong stage presence and delivers a commanding performance when teamed up with Elle and Kyle the UPS man. Daniel George who plays Emmett a charming and sensitive law student who supports Elle, captures the sensitive nature of the character and delivers a great performance.

Full credit must be given to the supporting cast who worked hard and delivered fantastic performances, all of which can be attributed to the great direction of Louise Sall and Tim Rice. The choreography is very good all thanks to the hard work of Amelia. Do not miss this show as the strap line goes ” This musical is so much fun it should be illegal”

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie – SCMYT ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie -Sutton Coldfield Musical Youth Theatre

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Monday 23rd June 2025

By : Nigel Gambles

Photography by : Studio 55 Photography

After the success of Footloose last year and previous shows Les Mis and Legally Blonde , SCMYT is definitely the best if not one of the best youth groups in the West Midlands

Their latest show Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, and wow! What an incredible show it is! Bringing this musical sensation to life – including Northern accents, multiple set and costume changes and complex dance numbers – was ambitious. Talented young performers aged just 13 to 18, poured their hearts and souls into a performance that was dynamic, professional, and full of impressive talent. It had heart, humour and heels so high I wouldn’t be able to walk in them, let alone dance!

From the opening scene it was packed with raucous energy and perfectly delivered sass that immediately transported us to a gritty Sheffield comprehensive, where Year 11s contend with the wonderful and frightening possibilities that lie ahead of each of them. Jamie New, an openly gay 16-year-old who dreams of becoming a drag queen was instantly likeable as he and the rest of the cast swept us into his pop-fantastic daydream ‘And You Don’t Even Know It’.

What made this amateur ‘Youth Edition’ so special was the thrill of watching real teenagers bring these teen characters to life. Under Georgia Young’s amazing and expert direction the cast delivered a level of talent that could easily be on the West End Stage. The way she fills the cast with enthusiasm and energy is quite remarkable.

Choreography by Charlotte Jervis assisted by Ethan Bowley, was stunning high energy and superb synchronisation especially in the dance duet. More of that later,

The whole ensemble was brilliantly cast, with every member delivering a believable storyline through genuine and multi-dimensional acting, powerful vocals and sharp choreography.

Toby Foetu-Foster was made to play Jamie he brought the perfect mix of camp charisma and youthful innocence to the role, whilst also capturing Jamie’s wit, cheekiness and vulnerability. His rendition of ‘Wall In My Head’ was captivating, building beautifully into an emotional crescendo that gave me chills!

Meanwhile, Zadie Beschi gave Pritti Jamie’s loyal, studious best friend, a quietly headstrong presence. Her solo ‘Beautiful’ was sung with elegant control, allowing each phrase the space and diction needed to feel both precise and spontaneous. The production honoured the spirit of diversity by respectfully representing the Muslim community, complete with hijabs.

I have to say I was very moved by Neve Mathews’s portrayal of Jamie’s mum Margaret, especially her song ‘He’s My Boy’. It was heartfelt and mature, with excellent vocal range, and had me reflecting on the bittersweet truth that while we strive to shield our children from pain, life will inevitably hurt them, and yet we thrive on seeing them live authentically.

Another standout came from Jamie Wilson as the school bully who’s harsh lines stung, but showed subtle remorse that added depth to his characterisation.

Oscar Ralley was commanding as Hugo and playful as Loco Chanelle, offering a refreshing contrast between the characters.

The set design was simple but effective. Transitions between classroom, kitchen, bus stop and prom seemed to happen as if by magic, enhanced by effective lighting and seamless costume changes, from school uniforms to dazzling prom gowns. The spotlight reveal of Jamie’s red dress was especially powerful, leaving the audience wanting more.

Dynamic choreography and colourful harmonies elevated the production, from coordinated group numbers to breakout moments allowing individual characters to shine. Particularly memorable was the schoolgirls’ clapping routine in ‘Spotlight’, reminding us of the characters’ young age, while a dance duet between Gracie Drain and Euan Barnby during Margaret’s ‘If I Met Myself Again’ added a poignant, dreamlike quality to the song. The choreography was so beautiful. I especially loved the title number ‘Everybody’s Talking About Jamie’, which kicked off Act II, with its excited, gossipy feel, as multiple characters bounced their individual lines off each other before erupting into an energetic and synchronised dance sequence that had the whole room buzzing!

It’s genuinely hard to believe this was an amateur musical theatre. The level of professionalism, emotional authenticity and pure talent displayed by every single cast member absolutely blew me away. These young performers truly brought a little bit of glitter to the grey.