Verdict: Five stars
WHEN a story inspires, lifts your spirits and makes you laugh, you can't help but rave about it.
That is simply what makes Everybody's Talking About Jamie so special.
The musical arrived at Glasgow's Theatre Royal on Tuesday night with a stellar cast including Bad Education star Layton Williams, Eastenders favourite Shane Ritchie and Britain's Got Talent's George Sampson.
And while the big names on stage are a bonus, it is the story of Jamie Campbell that completely brings a new offering to the musical theatre genre.
Based on the 16-year-old's true-life story, the musical follows Jamie's journey from schoolboy to drag queen. He has the strong support system of his mum Margaret played by Amy Ellen Richardson and her hilarious friend Ray (Sasha Latoya) who accept Jamie for who he truly is although he faces the adversities of the outside world including the rejection of his own father.
School bully Dean Paxton (George Sampson) just keeps picking on him but with the support of bestie Pritti Pasha (Sharan Phull) Jamie manages to keep his spirits up and is even inspired to go to the school prom wearing a dress.
It is during his search for a prom dress, he meets shop owner Hugo (Shane Ritchie) who unveils his past as a drag queen and helps inspire Jamie to follow in his footsteps.
The Feeling frontman Dan Gillespie Sells composed the music for the show drawing influences from R'n'B, soul and pop to give the musical a real contemporary feel.
Williams owns the vocals in some of Jamie's big numbers including The Wall In My Head and Ugly in this Ugly World while Phull puts on a show-stopping performance during's Pritti's number It Means Beautiful.
The choreography is just as contemporary with hip hop, modern and street dance moves used throughout the show to convey the story.
Williams is the standout star as Jamie. He was just believable in this role. His vocals completely unique, with a tone like no other. He was vulnerable when the role demanded it but entertaining throughout which just made him mesmerising to watch.
His performance was bolstered by an outstanding cast who each held their own on stage to make this show just magical.
Watching Shane Ritchie as his drag queen Loco Chanelle alter-ego was a real highlight. He was a complete pro and had the audience in stitches.
Everybody's Talking About Jamie feels like musical theatre for a new generation. Jamie's courage to be true to himself is a story on stage that can only inspire others.
Catch Everybody's Talking About Jamie until Saturday.
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