As an NSTA representative, I had the honour of watching The Avon Valley School & Performing Arts College’s production of Everybody’s Talking About Jamie on Thursday 14th May 2026. What unfolded before the audience was not simply a school musical, but a vibrant, courageous, and deeply moving theatrical experience that celebrated identity, acceptance and the importance of being unapologetically yourself.
Inspired by the true story of Jamie Campbell, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is a 2017 West End sensation which tells the story of a teenager who dreams of becoming a drag queen and wearing a dress to his school prom. At its heart, the musical is about identity and the struggle to be seen for who you truly are in a world that often wants people to fit into predefined boxes. It is a celebration of individuality and Avon Valley’s school edition captured this message beautifully, balancing humour, heart and emotional honesty throughout.
I knew I was in for a treat the moment I heard the music by Sam, who provided excellent backstage musical support, alongside Jake, whose musical arrangements brought richness and energy to the production. From the opening number, “And You Don’t Even Know It”, it was immediately clear that this cast possessed extraordinary talent and infectious energy. The audience instantly knew they were in for something special.
Charlie, playing Jamie, delivered a truly compelling performance. Early in Act One, during “The Wall In My Head”, Charlie commanded the stage with emotional maturity beyond his years. Surrounded by figures dressed in black holding offensive protest banners featuring cruel words such as “disgusting” and “ugly”, the moment became incredibly powerful and moving. Charlie used the stage space brilliantly and portrayed Jamie’s vulnerability, humour, and growing confidence with authenticity throughout the production. One of the most emotionally devastating moments came when Jamie discovered the painful truth about his father’s shame and rejection. Charlie’s rendition of “Ugly In This Ugly World” at the cleverly utilised bus stop set was outstanding.
Oliver, playing Jamie’s father, gave a performance that genuinely made the audience feel anger and disappointment towards the character, while Harry’s portrayal of Dean effectively embodied the cruelty of bullying and toxic masculinity.
Beau was phenomenal as Hugo and Loco Chanel. Their commanding stage presence in “The Legend of Loco Chanel” captivated the audience. The use of mannequins, glamorous dresses, and wigs within Hugo’s shop created a visually stunning scene, while Beau’s powerful vocals and confident movement elevated every moment.
Chloe, as Pritti, was exceptional. Her narration was flawless, her diction crystal clear, and her energy unwavering throughout. During “It Means Beautiful”, Chloe delivered a beautifully tender and sincere performance that left me with tears in my eyes. Pritti represents loyalty, kindness and acceptance, and Chloe captured these qualities perfectly.
Kacey’s portrayal of Margaret was equally extraordinary. During “He’s My Boy”, there was genuinely not a dry eye in the house. Her performance felt entirely authentic and emotionally truthful. In “If I Met Myself Again” Kacey delivered a stunning performance; combined with the emotional confrontation at the bus stop and the haunting choreography of the ensemble, the scene was performed with precision and heartbreaking honesty.
Nyasha brought fantastic comedic timing as Ray, providing much-needed humour through witty jokes and lively stage presence. Emily-May also impressed as the formidable Miss Hedge, delivering a wonderfully believable portrayal. The Glamour Queens Lily, Sophie and Beatrix were spectacular, while every member of the dance cast demonstrated strong characterisation, excellent still images, expressive facial reactions, and polished movement throughout.
The entire ensemble deserves immense praise. Every pupil remained fully committed to their role at all times. Their diction was phenomenal and their harmonies were beautiful. Joanne, the vocal coach, clearly did exceptional work with the cast vocally.
A striking multi-level modern minimalist set design allowed seamless transitions between school, home and backstage environments. The defining feature was a large white geometric backdrop with an origami-like textured pattern that reacted brilliantly to the lighting design. A raised upper platform stretched across the back of the stage, creating opportunities for dream sequences, featured solos, and layered staging. Stage right featured the memorable “Jamie Show” archway, which cleverly doubled as a drag dressing room entrance and symbolic frame for solo moments. The physical wall prop was a particularly smart directorial decision by Elisa and Assistant Director Ellyn, allowing the audience to visualise the emotional barriers Jamie faces internally and externally. Turquoise modular desks and stools were rearranged fluidly by the cast, helping maintain pace and allowing the choreography from Sara and Emma to shine.
Matthew, the theatre technician, deserves enormous praise for his excellent use of flashing spotlights and transitions that built anticipation before the show had even begun. The lighting design was highly stylised and immensely effective. Cool blues, purples, and stark whites dominated the scenes grounded in school reality, while deep magentas, neon pinks, and warm yellows illuminated Jamie’s fantasies and drag performances. The overhead LED grid panels transformed the atmosphere instantly and the integrated LED strip lighting lining the platforms gave the entire production a contemporary digital feel. These creative choices elevated the production far beyond expectations for a school show.
Costuming also played a significant role in defining the themes of conformity versus self-expression. The royal blue school uniforms represented restriction and societal expectation, while the dazzling drag costumes exploded with colour, glamour, and confidence. Sequinned gowns, metallic jackets, floral silk robes, and oversized colourful sunglasses in the finale created a joyful celebration of individuality. The dream sequence costumes, particularly the white tutus and metallic silver tops paired with hot pink shorts, beautifully captured the flamboyant spirit of iconic pop culture influences.
This production transcended typical school performances, leaving the audience completely immersed in Jamie’s world. It highlighted the transformative power of drama in education and showcased the incredible talent, togetherness and dedication of the pupils and staff at The Avon Valley School & Performing Arts College. It was not simply a school production, but a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity and unity. School theatre productions such as this deserve to be celebrated and supported wholeheartedly. Avon Valley should feel incredibly proud of what they achieved. This was an unforgettable evening of theatre that reminded every audience member of the importance of acceptance, courage and daring to live authentically.