Everybody's Talking About Jamie

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Artscape Arena

The Waterfront Theatre School

10 July 2025

The Waterfront Theatre School’s production of Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, currently lighting up the Artscape Arena, is a reminder that good theatre doesn’t need to shout to be heard, although there were enough sequins on stage to make sure no-one is overlooked. This South African premiere of the hit West End musical is heartfelt, cleanly executed, and packed with youthful energy – and it's a triumph for student theatre.

At the heart of it all is John Marshall, who leads the cast with grace, confidence, and just the right amount of sass. As Jamie, he brings a warmth and authenticity that never veers into caricature. His performance is playful when it needs to be, but anchored in real emotion, particularly during the quieter, more vulnerable moments. It's a role that demands range, and Marshall delivers with ease.

The production design is stylish in its simplicity. A modest, simple set, cleverly posed against a rainbow off costumes, serves as an effective setting that lets the performances shine. The creative use of height in the venue, particularly with glitter balls suspended overhead, adds an unexpected sparkle – literally and figuratively – that elevates key scenes without overwhelming them.

Technically, this show hits all the right notes. Lighting was sharp and purposeful, guiding tone and mood with precision, except that I felt there were a few too many scenes that were overpowered with pink, rather than the rainbow associated with Pride. Sound design was crisp, allowing every lyric and beat to land cleanly in the compact arena. Most notably, the choreography was a consistent highlight – tight, expressive, and full of attitude without ever becoming chaotic. Credit to Ursula Lubbe for knowing how to stage movement that enhances character and keeps the show flowing with flair. I do think this deserves a larger stage, not just for the cast, but there was some crashing into set pieces, since it's a very compact stage.

Of course, the story of Jamie is as valid and moving today as ever. A queer teenager navigating identity, courage, and community in a world that doesn't always welcome difference – it’s not just entertainment; it's a cultural moment. So too the handling of bullying and rejection, many people are exposed to this daily, with no way out. With such difficult subject matter, and such a physcially demanding performance, this cast plays it truthfully.

What’s most impressive with this show is the restraint. This is a student production that resists the temptation to be overblown. There's no overkill, no trying-too-hard. Instead, the team trusts the material, the message, and their own skill – and it pays off. In a theatre world often obsessed with excess, this show proves that clarity, intention, and heart win every time.

In short? Everybody’s Talking About Jamie – and with this production, they should be talking about the Waterfront Theatre School too.

Runs until 19 July at Artscape Arena. Don’t miss it.