Kinky Boots

‘Kinky Boots’ is based on the true story of Steve Pateman and the attempt made to save the family shoe factory in Northampton in 1979. The original production premiered in Chicago in 2012 and then on Broadway in 2013. It ended in 2019 and the West End debut was in 2015.

The scene was set immediately on entering the theatre as the main tabs were open revealing the frontage of the shoe factory. The set was excellent and behind the frontage was the well-equipped floor of the shoe factory. I assume that the set came with the relevant furniture and, if not then those sourced by the company were realistic and very much in keeping with the era.

Action started with a wonderfully busy opening scene and the ensemble rendition of Price and Son Theme.  As Charlie Price, Zak Negri acted and sang well and ‘Not My Father’s Son’, sung as a duet with Lola, was very thought provoking.  Nicola, Charlie’s girlfriend, was played with confidence by Helen Burgess-Bartlett. She had good stage presence and an impressive singing voice. The ‘row’ scene with Charlie was superbly acted by both of them.  As the story unfolded and Charlie realised that Nicola had a different agenda to his re the factory, then Lauren replaced her in his affections.  In that role, Zoe Parker was a relaxed and natural performer. She was instrumental and supportive in his taking the factory into a new era that would hopefully make it a success again---- and it did.  Undoubtedly the star of the show was Markus Martinez in the role of Lola/Simon and it was very difficult to watch anyone else when he was on stage. He was loud and showy as Lola but also had a soft underbelly which showed his vulnerability. He gave a terrific performance.  Playing his backing group The Angels, all four of the actors, Max Cunningham, Louise Camby, Karen Ward and Tyrone Haywood were very well-rehearsed and they performed their dance routines with style - Max Cunningham was captivating.  Steve Clemo was commendable as the factory manager George. He was tough when things were going wrong, always there for Charlie and loyal to the family firm and he appeared totally at ease in the role.  Peter French made a macho Don, typical 1970’s man, and the fight scene with Lola/Simon was convincing. The two young boys, Ethan Manwaring and Charlie Irwin made their mark as Young Lola/Simon and Young Charlie respectively and show great promise for the future.  Alex Kuscharski put his all into his cameo role as Harry and Monica Turnbull and Carolyn Green were strong in their supporting roles of Pat and Trish.  There were many other named roles undertaken by members of the society and without exception they all added greatly to the overall presentation of ‘Kinky Boots’. They were full of energy and remained in their characters throughout.

The bar scene was wonderfully atmospheric enhanced by the lighting and Lola’s visit to the Nursing Home was really moving causing me to have a lump in my throat! The thrust used as the catwalk for the fashion show worked perfectly and the scene changes were carried out quickly and efficiently.

Costumes were good - Lola’s were magnificent and The Angels ones too were impressive. The boots were amazing and what a surprise in the finale when everyone on stage wore a pair! The costumes in the finale were super and the company were really having a great time in ‘Raise You Up/Just Be’.

James’s stage direction was excellent and Della Bhujoo did a wonderful job with the choreography.

On occasion the music was a little loud but it’s quite possible that it wasn’t a problem for other members of the audience. ‘To Be Like Him’ was incredibly poignant and beautifully sung and acted. The other two especially memorable songs were Charlie’s ‘Soul Of A Man’ and Lola’s ‘Hold Me In Your Heart’.

It was a most enjoyable production.

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