Hayley Tamaddon on why everybody still talks about Jamie

But if you are a regular at the theatre, you might have seen in slay the role of Roxie in Chicago, become a Thoroughly Modern Millie and embrace the intimacy of a show like Closets at the Hope Mill Theatre.

She is about to revisit the role of Miss Hedge in the hit musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie which returns the Lowry next month.

We caught up with her in rehearsal to find out more.

What attracted you to this show?

 I’ve done the show before in 2019 in the west end so I am very familiar with it!

It’s a superb show and when you’ve done it once you are part of the Jamie family.

Miss Hedge has clear views about gender identity. Is it an exciting challenge to play, as her views progress through the narrative?

She is a great character to play.

She is the complete opposite of me.. she doesn’t want to be a teacher.

She had big dreams that sadly she was unable to fulfil.

She does try to understand Jamie and I think deep down she has a soft spot for him but she’s so cynical.

She feels life has treated her unfairly.

The song Work of Art has a few ‘Strike a Pose’ moments. Does it bring out your inner Madonna?

Haha! Yes!

I love a good vogue!

And I really enjoy getting to do some dancing in my big number.

Jamie is a real ensemble piece, how are rehearsals going?

Rehearsals are going great and this is a super-talented company!

The ensemble blows me away.. they are incredible.. and you have the amazing Jonny Partridge, Shobna Gulati, and Rebecca McKinnis.

Wait till you see them!

Why do you think the show has endured from it’s Sheffield debut, and had a West End run, tours and a film version?

Because it’s a true story, it touches a lot of people’s hearts and it’s a story that needs to be heard.

You can come and watch this show and escape for 2 hours and feel safe with us and you’ll feel loved. I promise!

And if the show is new to audiences, what can they expect?

You can expect laughter and tears.

Songs that will stick in your head and see a story of love.

And hope. And dreams.

And the key message is to always follow your dreams.

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is at the Lowry from 7^th September – 17^th September and you can book tickets here.