Shane Richie will join the West End cast of EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE in the new year.

From 28th January 2019, Richie, best known for his role as Alfie Moon in soap opera EastEnders, joins the cast as Hugo / Lolo Chanelle in the West End productions. His previous stage credits include GREASE in the West End, and UK tours of SCROOGE and ONE FLEW OVER THE CUKOO’S NEST.

Speaking on his new role, Richie said: ‘EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE is a terrific show so I jumped at the chance to play Hugo / Loco Chanelle. It’s so different to any role I’ve played before and too good an opportunity to miss. I started my career in night clubs and cabaret pubs – the kind of world Hugo inhabits – where I met some wonderful characters. So in a sense I feel like I’ve met Hugo / Loco Chanelle before. I’ve had lots of ideas about how to portray the character and sing the songs. As for my dress and heels, hang onto your handbags!’.

EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE premiered at the Sheffield Crucible early 2017 garnering rave reviews. A West End transfer to the Apollo Theatre in London followed in November that same year where it met similar acclaim. The musical has amassed numerous awards and nominations including a Best New Musical nomination at the Olivier’s earlier this year. The musical was also screened to cinemas this Summer and a major movie adaptation is currently in development.

Based on the true story and BBC documentary Jamie: Drag Queen at 16, EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE features music by The Feeling’s Dan Gillespie Sells with book and lyrics by Tom McRae.

The West End musical currently stars Oliver nominee John McCrea as Jamie alongside Rebecca McKinnis as Margaret, Lucie Shorthouse as Pritti and RuPaul judge Michelle Visage as Miss Hedge. It was recently announced that Layton Williams (RENT, BILLY ELLIOT) will takeover the title role of Jamie from January 2019.

EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE is currently booking at London’s Apollo Theatre until 28th September 2019.