Kinky Boots - Northern Arts Review
at the Leeds Grand Theatre
Kinky Boots - Northern Arts Review
It’s not every day a pair of heels walks on stage and takes over the room—but then again, Lola’s boots aren’t just any boots. A dazzling, high-octane celebration of self-expression and resilience, this brand-new touring production is everything you want a big musical to be: funny, heartfelt, and bursting with sheer joy. Directed with flair by Nikolai Foster and powered by a knockout cast, this is Kinky Boots reimagined—and Lola and her Angels have never had more swagger.
Originally based on the 2005 film (itself inspired by a true story), Kinky Boots follows Charlie Price, the reluctant heir of his father’s failing Northampton men’s shoe factory. When a chance encounter introduces him to Lola, a vivacious drag queen in need of sturdy stilettos, the pair team up to design a range of custom footwear for a niche market. Charlie’s last-ditch attempt to save the factory ends up changing more than just its fortunes—it opens a few minds along the way. With music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper and a book by Harvey Fierstein, this award-winning show walks the line between heart, humour, and high-heeled spectacle.
Johannes Radebe, best known for his glittering paso doble on Strictly Come Dancing, steps into Lola’s boots with magnetic force. He’s every inch the star the role demands, commanding the stage in feathers, sequins, and heels with charisma to spare. But what’s more impressive is the vulnerability and nuance he brings. In a touching sequence, Lola and Charlie face one another, holding the hands of their younger selves. It was hard not to feel the power of the moment deep in your chest. Vocally, I was delighted by the strength and control in his voice, although he’s not quite as polished as his co-stars.
Dan Partridge’s Charlie is beautifully played, with real emotional range and a voice that soars, especially in “Soul of a Man” and “Step One.” But my firm favourite of the night was Courtney Bowman as Lauren. She brings down the house with her infinitely relatable number “The History of Wrong Guys.” Ms Bowman has that rare ability to be laugh-out-loud funny and entirely sincere at once—and her chemistry with Partridge lights up the stage.
To see my full review, please visit Northern Arts Review
See you in the shadows my loves,
Sean x
