Everybody's Talking About Jamie - The Lowry

CHASING your dreams takes a lot of courage and determination, especially when social and peer pressures seem to be conspiring against you.

And so it is with Jamie, growing up gay in a macho, northern city. Despite the bullying and being dumped by his dad, the hero/heroine of this heartfelt and hilarious piece has a burning ambition.

He dreams of being a drag queen.

The musical was inspired by the true story of one Jamie Campbell and the story has been transplanted to Sheffield. While the location has switched from Campbell’s native north east, this is a tale with universal themes of love, tolerance and acceptance.

Ivano Turco’s sultry and soulful voice makes him an ideal Jamie and there’s a touching, very real chemistry between him and Talia Palamathanan, who plays his best friend Pritti quite superbly.

But it’s Jamie’s relationship with his loving, devoted if at times perplexed mum Margaret that provides the most memorable and moving moments, with Turco and Margaret McKinnis creating an unmistakable, believable bond.

I also really enjoyed John Partridge as Hugo, Jamie’s unofficial mentor in sequins.

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie issure to figure strongly in topics of conversation for a long time to come.

I, for one, won’t forget this in a hurry. Unmissable.

Until September 17. Star rating - 5

Tickets are available from 0343 208 6000 or www.thelowry.com.