Review: Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, Bristol Hippodrome

This vibrant musical of self-discovery and fighting against the odds needs a strong lead actor and Ivano Turco is certainly that. 

The Strictly Come Dancing star, who also played the title role of Bob Marley in the West End production of Get Up! Stand Up!, is a huge and likeable personality bursting with confidence. He’s as loud and proud as his dazzling costumes and red stilettos.

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is the story of a gay 16-year-old boy called Jamie New whose biggest secret is the fact he wants to become a drag queen - a brave move when you live on a tough council estate and have a disapproving father.

Based on a true story, the show is packed with memorable songs and fantastic choreography, but also strong messages and themes about inclusivity and acceptance.

Unlike many musicals which are big on belting numbers and low on dialogue and storyline, this one is more of a play jam-packed with memorable songs.

Kevin Clifton - best known as one of the professional dancers on Strictly Come Dancing - shows that his voice is as good as his dance moves as drag queen Loco Chanelle.

There is also strong support from Talia Palamathanan as Pritti Pasha, Jamie’s Muslim schoolfriend who sticks by him through thick and thin. Her version of It Means Beautiful was one of the best vocal displays of the evening.

Sejal Keshwala drew plenty of laughs as feisty family friend Ray and Rebecca McKinnis’s portrayal of Jamie’s supportive mum was sensitive and her handling of stand-out song He’s My Boy was masterly.

But it was Ivano Turco who shone like a beacon from the minute he stepped on stage. Turco has now made the part of Jamie his own with his sassy confidence, wonderful dancing and impressive vocals. 

He also brings a welcome dash of fragility and sensitivity to this multi-layered and louder than loud character. He oozes star quality and the audience loved him.

Everybody's Talking About Jamie runs at the Bristol Hippodrome until Saturday March 30. For tickets, click here.