Kinky Boots

Kinky Boots, the musical, with music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper and book by Harvey Fierstein is based on the 2005 British film of the same name, written by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth. It is mostly inspired by true events and tells the story of Charlie Price who suddenly and reluctantly inherits the ailing family shoe factory on the death of his father. Trying to live up to his father’s legacy and save the business he has a chance meeting with Lola, a drag queen, in need of some sturdy stiletto boots. They find that they have more in common than they think and Lola turns out to be the one who can help Charlie to become the man he is meant to be.

It is very unusual to have two male leads in a show, both of which are vital and pivotal to the storyline and so demanding in different ways especially as one must depict a totally believable characterization. Jon Bennett was absolutely outstanding in the challenging role of drag queen Lola. He so confidently commanded the stage, brashly flouncing and strutting around in fantastic, dazzling outfits with accompanying wigs and makeup whilst not only just wearing, but also dancing in such high-heeled boots! He also excellently portrayed the character's vulnerability, none more so than when he sang ‘Hold Me in Your Heart’ which was just heart rending. His powerful singing of all his numbers was exceptional - a truly brilliant performance. Another fine performance came from Chris Hanlon as Charlie. He too has a superb singing voice and his great acting skills were very much in evidence as he desperately tried to hold it together for the sake of his factory workers. He masterfully portrayed the transformation from being dominated by his father and then by Nicola, to having a belief in himself. His heart wrenching deliveries of ‘Charlie’s Soliloquy’ and 'Soul of Man’ were top notch and for me, one of the most moving moments of the whole evening was the singing of ‘Not My Father’s Son’ sung so meaningfully and movingly by Lola and Charlie. Georgii Bailey was utterly delightful as Lauren. She has great stage presence and managed to extract every ounce of humour from the role and her hilarious rendition of ‘The History of Wrong Guys’ was terrific. Richard Tooze excelled as the reactionary phobic male factory worker, Kerry Towndrow-Birds was splendid as frustrated Nicola, Charlie’s fiancee, Simon Lewington was very convincing as George, the factory manager and good support came from Ed Telfer as Harry, Louisa Eades as Pat and Sarah Bates as Trish. There was also excellent involvement from Thomas Morrell as Young Charlie and Alfie Evans as Young Simon. Simon Addy, Kat Burton, Connor Brown, Billie Eades, Heather Henderson and Jason Finch were spectacular as the Angels. Their sparkling, glamourous, extravagant, saucy and provocative singing and dance routines were fabulously choreographed and delivered, bringing vitality and exuberance to the stage. The wonderful Divas and the Factory Workers all greatly added to the whole scenario. The singing and dancing throughout was superb, the set and props were good, the lighting effects were excellent and costumes and make-up were exquisite. The boots that were worn throughout, especially by Lola and The Angels, were magnificent and in the finale, even the whole cast wore ‘Kinky Boots’, including Charlie and Don!!

I thoroughly enjoyed every moment as did the very enthusiastic audience when, following a wonderful rousing finale, the whole of the full-house, yes, full-house, stood to give a standing ovation in appreciation of what was a truly remarkable theatrical experience.

Congratulations must indeed go to Karl Brennan, Director, to Nick Stacey, Musical Director, to Paula Wilson, Choreographer, to all of the backstage crew and to all who were involved in anyway. A special thanks to Chairwoman, Dawn Melloy for the warm welcome and care given to myself and my guest.

Joyce Handbury

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