🎭 REVIEW: Everybody’s Talking About Jamie – And So Are We!

As Belfast bursts into full technicolour for Pride, there could not be a more perfect time to catch a show that celebrates authenticity, individuality and unapologetic fabulousness. So when Everybody’s Talking About Jamie opened at The MAC this week, I made sure to be there, and I am so glad I did. This production, staged by the incredibly talented Alfie Boe James Huish Academy of Theatre Arts, is a glittering reminder of the power of being true to yourself and the joy that comes with finding your place in the world.

From the moment the lights came up, it was clear we were in for something special. Jamie New, brought to life with charisma and emotional depth by Dara Setanta McNaughton, is the heart of the story. Watching his transformation from a shy schoolboy with a dream to a fierce queen in heels was as moving as it was empowering. Dara delivered the role with a perfect mix of vulnerability, sass and heart, and by the end of the show he had the audience right in the palm of his hand.

One of the most beautiful elements of the show is the friendship between Jamie and Pritti, played with warmth and subtlety by Rebecca Murray. Their duet, It Means Beautiful, was a stunning highlight, showcasing not only their vocal talents but the deep affection and understanding between the characters. It was the kind of moment that leaves a lump in your throat and a smile on your face.

The adult roles brought just as much emotional weight, particularly Shirley Adair as Jamie’s loving and protective mum, Margaret. Her performance was full of strength and tenderness, and her rendition of If I Met Myself Again, paired with Mya Jansen van Rensburg’s expressive dance, was simply gorgeous. Leah McLoughlin was a standout as Ray, delivering every line with comic timing and heartfelt conviction. She was the kind of godmother figure every queer kid needs in their corner.

Michael Payer gave a bold and spirited performance as Hugo, also known as Loco Chanelle. At first played with flamboyant flair, his portrayal gradually revealed a more grounded and compassionate side, showing the layers behind the glitter. James Hutchinson made a real impression as Dean, the school bully, maintaining a constant sense of menace and emotional intensity throughout.

What really struck me was how ambitious and accomplished this production was. With just two weeks of rehearsal, this young cast of around 30 delivered something many professional companies would be proud of. Director James Huish brought out meaningful emotion from the entire ensemble, while choreographer Gemma Greene kept the energy high and the movement dynamic. The opening number, And You Don’t Even Know It, exploded with confidence and swagger, setting the tone for a night full of fierce fun and heartfelt moments.

The LED video wall, often overused in modern theatre, was actually a clever and effective touch here, giving the production extra visual depth without distracting from the action on stage. I also loved the detail of the customised school blazers with the embroidered ABJH crest, a small touch that added a sense of pride and polish to the whole piece.

Seeing Everybody’s Talking About Jamie during Belfast Pride felt particularly powerful. Yes, it is a musical full of laughs, sequins and fabulous shoes, but it is also a story about resilience, chosen family and the courage to be yourself in a world that doesn’t always make that easy. It touches on rejection, bullying and societal expectations, but does so with warmth, wit and hope. For a young queer person sitting in that audience, Jamie’s story might just be the spark they need to feel seen and supported.

This show is more than a performance, it is a celebration. A celebration of individuality, of self-expression and of the next generation of artists who are unafraid to take up space, tell important stories and shine. It is thrilling to see this show being staged in Belfast and even more so by such a fearless and passionate group of young people.

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie runs at The MAC until Saturday 26 July. If you are looking for a way to celebrate Pride that will leave you uplifted, inspired and maybe even ready to dig out your own stilettos, go see it. This cast deserves a full house and a standing ovation and Belfast is lucky to have them.

Photos by Gorgeous Photography NI

Words by Daniel May | Editor, GNI MAG