Back in 2013, when Musical Theatre Review was just starting, I attended a cabaret at London’s Crazy Coqs that was so packed I was asked to share a table. Thank goodness I agreed, because the gentleman I sat next to was Jeremy Chapman. It was kismet. Over the next decade Jeremy became not just one of my most treasured reviewers, but a wonderful companion on nights out at the theatre and a dear friend.
Having only heard the news today that we have lost Jeremy, I would like to take some time to put together a full appreciation of the huge difference he made to Musical Theatre Review and to bring together contributions from colleagues and artists that I know will want to pay tribute to his knowledge, flair and expertise.
For now, though, I feel compelled to write these few words of appreciation:
Despite all kinds of health issues that bothered him during the last decade, Jeremy’s passion and enthusiasm for his craft never wavered. Amidst the 650 or so reviews he wrote for this website, he covered musical theatre in the West End, on the London Fringe, in the regions, in Paris, and even at HMP Bronzefield where he championed the work of Pimlico Opera. And that’s before we mention his love of all things cabaret and his joy in celebrating the work of new talent – whether that be via his support of student showcases or his regular reviews of the Stephen Sondheim Society Student Performer of the Year (SSSSPOTY) event; Jeremy was a lively member of the society and introduced me to other members, not least chair Craig Glenday, who also became vital members of the MTR team.
SSSSPOTY 2022 runner-up Ella Shepherd pictured with Jeremy who donated the £500 cheque. Picture: Ian Bowkett
When I met Jeremy, he was already an experienced journalist, having worked for many years in sports journalism, as a pioneering golf and racing tipster, and as a much-respected writer for The Sporting Life and Racing Post. When he retired from that world after 50 years’ service last year, the Racing Post published a double page spread about Jeremy, entitled ‘100-1 winners, Muhammad Ali and the £72,000 sting that gave him a heart attack’.
I had always assumed that somewhere along the line, Jeremy had tried his hand at theatre reviewing. When he started contributing to MTR, his copy had so much gravitas and style. But no, he had always loved the theatre, yet had never had an outlet before to combine his passion for writing with his love of the arts. I will always treasure the fact that MTR gave him an opportunity to pursue that passion.
It was wonderful to observe how that joy had an impact on the artists he admired. Only recently I joined Jeremy to see Ann Hampton Callaway, one of his favourites, back at Crazy Coqs. I wrote in my review:
“Before Callaway said her farewells at this show, she gave a special mention to a couple of guests in the audience, one of which was Musical Theatre Review’s very own Jeremy Chapman who has championed the performer’s work in many excellent reviews during the last decade. It was wonderful to see Jeremy recognised in this way, and the credit was so well deserved.”
Just two days ago, when Jeremy was in hospital, he emailed me with an apology that he wasn’t going to make a press night for The Bodyguard tour at his local venue, the New Wimbledon Theatre. That was typical of the man, so professional, never wanting to let me down.
It’s hard to describe how much I am going to miss Jeremy. His emails with a list of cabarets/shows he has put in his diary to review, his offers of a topical news story (often with a betting angle!), his recommendations of music to listen to or new artists that deserved my attention. His habit of calling me ‘boss’ in messages. His delightful company at press nights. And, of course, his excellent writing, which will remain on this site as an impressive legacy.
We are sending all our love to Jeremy’s wife Christa, daughters Sarah and Stephanie, and all the family.
Jeremy, we will miss you dear friend.
Lisa Martland
Founder and Editor, Musical Theatre Review
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