We spent a fantastic evening at Norwich Theatre Royal for the opening night of the hit musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is about a working class kid overcoming adversity and embracing his true self is this modern origin story. Even drag queens have to start somewhere! Based on a true story and the 2011 documentary Jamie: Drag Queen at 16, the show takes you on a rose tinted journey of life as a modern teen. Yes its sensationalised but it’s an absolutely joyous telling of his story and never do you doubt that a happy end awaits. Nor should you, this is one feel good musical you wont want to miss.
Keeping it Real
Dramatic licence aside they have really done their homework. No cliché versions here of what life is like in year 11! Swearing, crude jokes and nods to covid. They were all spot on, and I should know. The honesty and ‘real’ diverseness of the cast make this the most relevant musical I’ve seen of late.
Truly Funny
Speaking of the cast. The performances by the actors (in particular by Layton Williams, and Amy Ellen Richardson as Jamie’s mother) were sensational. I bet every mother in the theatre couldn’t help but relate to Jaime’s Mothers plight and her solo ‘He’s My Boy’ brought the house down.
Williams’ use of timing and subtleties in dialogue and stage directions will have you have you in stiches. then tuggin at your heart-stings with one of his touching ballads. Layton Williams velvety voice and larger than life persona (and heels) embodies the character of Jamie perfectly and with natural flair.
Norwich Theatre Royal
Sadly the show is a sell out but Norwich Theatre Royal has so much more to offer. Whether you watch a show, take part in one of their activities or relax in their bars and restaurant.
Theatre Royal Norwich is an independent not-for-profit charity with no regular public funding, and rely on a share of ticket sales, one-off grants, fundraising/membership schemes and other commercial activities to deliver the work they do. Any surplus funds generated each year are reinvested into artistic and creative programmes to help support work with the community and keep inspiring future generations.
Fancy a Drink?
We had a little snoop at the Prelude Bar which is a modern restaurant where you can dine before a show. It looked very classy and the food looked beautiful. Then there’s Café Royal a relatively new venture with indoor and outdoor seating, barista made coffee, hand made cakes and sandwiches. We spent our pre-show time at one of two Norwich Theatre Royal bars; The Circle and The Stalls.
Believe it or not the prices are not that bad at all! I paid £4.60 for my pint of Aspall which is very similar to any pub price these days.
Final Thoughts
Andy and I had a fantastic evening it was so wonderful to be back at the Theatre again. There’s really nothing like it and with Norwich Theatre Royal on our doorstop there’s no excuse to miss out on world-class theatre and entertainment. Comfy seats, beautiful surroundings and a warm reception await you at Norwich Theatre Royal… we’re already planning what to see next.
Click here to visit the theatre’s website for more information, upcoming shows and ticket sales.
*Disclaimer: We were gifted our tickets for the performance but as always my words are my own.