Kinky Boots

They say good things come to those who wait, and this was certainly the case when Larbert Musical Theatre was finally able to take to the stage with the Scottish amateur premier of Kinky Boots.

From the red-carpet welcome and gala reception to the last bow this was a classy show in so many ways. It was also a pleasure to be able to present long service awards to 16 members of both Larbert Musical Theatre and OPUS totalling 363 years of service to amateur theatre – a remarkable achievement.

Based on the 2005 British film Kinky Boots, written by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth and with music by Cyndi Lauper the show is mostly inspired by true events, telling the story of Charlie Price. Having inherited a shoe factory from his father, Charlie forms an unlikely partnership with cabaret performer and drag queen Lola to produce a line of high-heeled boots and save the business. In the process, Charlie and Lola discover that they are not so different after all.

In the lead role of Charlie, John Coe, gave a very convincing and believable performance as the son of the previous factory owner struggling to decide what is best for him, the factory and the workers many of whom he considers friends. This was perfectly summed up in the moving ‘Soul of a Man’ sung with real feeling.

As his unlikely saviour John-Ross Weir as Lola/Simon gave a superb performance capturing all the subtleties of the character. The scene where she performed to her father in the nursing home was particularly moving.

As Charlies unexpected love interest Lauren, played by Claire Coyne, proved an excellent foil to Charlie ensuring she got her way in the end. Excellent comedy timing was evident in ‘The History of Wrong Guys’.

As factory foreman Don, Stewart Borthwick, captured the character perfectly as gradually he learned to accept people for who they are.

The rest of the principals provided great characterisation to ensure the show had a real authentic, realistic feel to it. Special mention to Lola’s angels for looking fabulous and moving effortlessly in heels! The cast was completed by a great sounding and moving chorus who really enhanced each scene they were in. It was obvious everyone on stage was delighted to be back and were giving everything to their performances.

Clever use of back projection and minimal staging by Director Derek D Easton ensured the action moved seamlessly from scene to scene with the pace never dropping. A well balance orchestra under the direction of Musical Director Jan Cunningham enhanced the singing by both principals and chorus alike to ensure they were never overpowered. Choreography by Yolande Borthwick was slick and together and complimented each song and its style. The costuming by Utopia Costumes added the icing on the cake especially the ‘Kinky Boots’.

All too soon we reached the rousing finale of ‘Raise You Up’ and the thoroughly well-deserved standing ovation.

Congratulations to all involved on and off stage for a triumphant return.

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