Can’t say I didn’t warn you…

I can’t believe the last blog I posted was right at the start of the year. Every few weeks my phone has reminded me to write a new one, and every single time something has stopped me — whether it’s a show, rehearsals, travelling, or me just not being in the mood to sit and reflect. So while I’ve got a spare 10–15 minutes, I thought… let’s finally do it.

This year has honestly been incredible work-wise. Small Town Boy has taken off in a way I never imagined. I’ve done more shows than I thought possible, and so many Pride events. If I’m honest, Leeds Pride and Tribfest are right up there for completely different reasons. Leeds, because I never thought I’d headline a Pride stage in a city that big. And Tribfest, because it was eye-opening — a festival experience I didn’t expect at all.

Not to mention performing at a Butlin’s 80s Weekender with Denise Pearson from Five Star — we’ve even exchanged numbers and there are some exciting things potentially happening next year. More on that another time! Plus all the smaller pubs and clubs I’ve visited, which have been so welcoming and full of community spirit. I’ve genuinely loved going back to places, meeting new people, making new connections, and hearing from those who love 80s music, Jimmy Somerville, Bronski Beat, and all that comes with the show. Please check out the new showreel if you get a chance below

https://youtu.be/nk1GbFiTKX8?si=Ay9eK8yWtqyTHY0H

On the flip side… because I’ve been working so much, I haven’t planned as many social things as I normally like to. I’ve seen certain people disappear into the background — including some I haven’t spoken to all year, believe it or not. But I did say at the start of the year that I wasn’t going to keep pestering people to make arrangements. In the same breath, new people have come into my life, which has been lovely.

It’s nothing bad against those who’ve drifted. Life just moves on. But I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t felt a bit bruised this year — not lost, just… bruised. Sometimes it feels like I’m the person people come to when they’ve got an issue, but unless someone needs something, I don’t really hear from them. A few things have also been said or done that hurt, and there was very little thought behind them. And in work, it’s been clear how much workload I take on and how much I give out — and that’s caused some rifts. Let’s just say there are people I won’t be sad to see the back of and some I’m glad I now know.

But it hasn’t all been heavy. I had one of the best holidays ever in Gran Canaria this year with such a mixed group of people, and I already want to go back — or plan more trips next year. I’ve already booked some lovely things for 2026: theatre shows, gigs, Mighty Hoopla, Brighton Pride, a couple of city breaks… and I can’t wait.

Now we’re heading into that weird Christmas period — and as most of you know, I’m not the biggest fan. I don’t like the pressure of it. I think some of the meaning of Christmas has been lost, and it feels like a competition of who can buy the best present, or “you got me that, so I need to match it.” I prefer the reflective side — which is what I’m trying to do here.

Overall, it hasn’t been a terrible year. Just a very different one.

To end on a positive:

Trinity Scares — changing the maze theme this year was a huge risk, and it completely paid off.

Some close people are expecting babies next year — exciting for them (not so much for me, we all know I’m not the biggest fan of babies).

I managed to save money, which was a big goal.

And I have a new addition to the family — Arrow the gecko, who I got for my birthday.

And of course… watching Ryan now owning the hair salon and seeing him grow, learn, and go from strength to strength has been such a proud moment for me. He’s smashing it, and I love seeing that.

So whatever Christmas means to you — whether it’s a big family dinner, a quiet day at home, or my style of Christmas (chicken curry and a horror movie) — I wish you a happy one.

Much love

Jay x x