Review! Everybody's Talking About Jamie, The Core Theatre, Solihull, Oct 26

Glitter, glamour and a whole lot of heart! STAMPS takes on Everybody’s Talking About Jamie at the Core Theatre, delivering a fun, energetic production that reminds us why this musical is about so much more than putting on a pair of heels. 

Leading the way is Jack Chatten as Jamie New, who is an absolute joy to watch. With brilliant stage presence, impeccable comic timing and a genuinely touching performance, Chatten makes Jamie instantly likeable. His humour lands brilliantly, but it is the quieter, more vulnerable moments that really show off his ability as an actor. Funny, raw and completely believable, this is a role that suits him down to the ground. 

Tianna Moyens is equally lovely as Pritti Pasha, bringing confidence, warmth and unwavering support to Jamie. The chemistry between the pair feels natural, making their friendship one of the production’s strongest elements. Moyens’ performance of It Means Beautiful is a particular standout, delivering one of the evening’s most moving moments and reminding us just how powerful it can be to have someone who believes in you. 

As Margaret New, Helen Gibbs brings plenty of warmth and humour to Jamie’s mum, alongside some genuinely heartfelt moments. Her relationship with Jamie feels full of love, even when things get complicated, and her vocals, supported by Helen McGrory, add another layer to the performance. Sharon Tozer is a delight as Ray, with her brilliant best-friend chemistry with Gibbs making her exactly the kind of person you would want in your corner. Every Margaret needs a Ray! 

Andy Aldcroft brings flair to the dual role of Hugo/Loco Chanelle, while Alice Bennett’s no-nonsense Miss Hedge and Zachariah Whitehouse’s swaggering Dean Paxton help build the world Jamie has to navigate. The supporting cast give the story its humour, its challenges and its sense of community, helping the central performances shine. 

The ensemble also deserves a mention for bringing Jamie’s school world to life. The use of both larger and smaller groups creates variety and keeps the action moving,

with the prom scene proving a particularly effective moment. It is great to see the wider cast used to build the story rather than simply fill the stage. 

Behind the scenes, Rob Bateman’s direction, choreography and set design make creative use of the space, with imaginative staging and scene changes helping the production flow. Production-LX’s lighting and sound add to the atmosphere, while Phil Ypres-Smith’s musical direction supports some strong vocal moments throughout. 

What really works here is the balance between the comedy and the heart. There is plenty of camp, plenty of fun and lots to enjoy, but the production also gives space to the tougher themes of bullying, acceptance and family. Jamie’s journey is not always easy, and those more emotional moments ensure the message never gets lost beneath the glitter. 

STAMPS delivers an enjoyable evening of musical theatre, with a standout central performance, lovely friendships and a story that still has plenty to say. It might leave you smiling, but it also leaves you thinking about the importance of letting people be exactly who they are. 

A feel-good show with fabulous energy, a brilliant Jamie and a message that will always deserve the spotlight.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Reviewed by Taylor Simner