Kinky Boots

I eagerly awaited my invitation to see Darlington OS’s Kinky Boots. I was then thrilled to be able to come see this twice to see all alternative cast members. Kinky Boots is a vibrant and uplifting musical that vividly portrays the story of Charlie Price, a young man struggling to save his family's shoe factory in Northampton. When he forms an unlikely partnership with a fabulous drag queen named Lola, they embark on a journey to create a line of high-heeled boots for drag queens, finding acceptance, understanding, and friendship along the way. Through catchy songs and colourful characters, the musical explores themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the power of embracing one's uniqueness.

‘Lola’ was played by Leighton Taylor-Jones who I have had seen before, but usually in comedic roles. Leighton, your portrayal of this character was steadfast and sublime! What impressed me most was your vocal ability, and your understanding of character development, both in and out of song. You made ‘I’m Not My Father’s Son’ your own. Typically, I know this song as soulful, but I thoroughly enjoyed your interpretation of this number. You highlighted the characters vulnerability with a soft, lyrical expression, and then displayed more raw emotion at the end; showing a perfect character arc sang beautifully. Not only that, but ‘Hold Me in Your Heart’ was truly special. Throughout, you could hear every word, and it was phrased magnificently. You managed a complex character, challenging choreography, and made this opportunity a true triumph, to which I was honoured to come and witness! – Well done.

‘Charlie’ was played by both, Ben Connor, and Nicholas Fletcher-Holmes.

Ben Connor: I always adore watching Ben’s ability to bring a script to life and this characterisation was incredibly considered. He was able to show ranges in emotion that made the character authentic and believable.

Nicholas Fletcher-Homes: I must note your singing capabilities, throughout you were able to drive songs forward and stir an audience to believe in the characters ambitions. I appreciated your characterisations too, and your ability in keeping pace throughout.

Throughout both actors demonstrated the characters narrative, by bringing the audience with them through loss, uncertainty, excitement, self-doubt, and then finally joy!

‘Lauren’ was played by both, Lucy Adams and Katie Wilson.

Lucy Adams: Lucy gave strong portrayal of Lauren. Typically, Lauren is played as someone who is, in my opinion, too quirky and sometimes silly often with the actor playing for laughs. I appreciated Lucy’s interpretation by stripping back this character whilst keeping her unique charm.

Katie Wilson: Your vocal ability was noted throughout. ‘The history of wrong guys’ was a standout in the production. I particularly appreciated the scene where you discussed you father’s death. Throughout the scene and show you gave the character depth.

‘Nicola’ was played by both Ellen Dunbavin and Charlotte Sisson.

Ellen Dunbavin: Ellen’s provided a different point of view for Nicola. Through her masterclass in expression, she developed layers that made an audience understand her narrative, about her worry of their future and not her own self-ambition. Ellen’s voice was expressive throughout and soared in the theatre.

Charlotte Sisson: This was my first-time seeing Charlotte and this actor is a true storyteller. She was able to put forward Nicola’s point of view, Charlotte portrayal was direct and focused allowing the audience to understand her ambition. Not only this but her vocal was crisp, and rich.

‘Don’ was played by Luke Oldfield. Luke played the antagonist with ease, and a confidence. However, what was truly special was Luke’s ability to show the characters juxtaposition between toxic masculinity and vulnerability. I enjoyed vocal performance, especially in ‘What a Woman Wants’ and ‘In This Corner’.

It was truly palpable in the theatre when the ‘Angels’ (Scott Edwards, Andrew Hamilton, George Hurley, Joe Hodgson, Kyle Macdonald, Darrien Wright, Nathan Walker, Zoe Bellamy, Adele McNally, Bethany Hill, Susy Slater, Rachel Gaddes, Madison Parkinson) entered for the first time with their high energy, and their colourful costumes. Throughout the production they managed truly spectacular choreography and characterisations. They transported the audience from a shoe factory in Northampton to somewhere much more fabulous. It’s in their synchronicity, and energy that shows the true hard work this group have put in – well done.

The backing Angels (Andrew Hamilton, George Hurley, and Scott Edwards) added a layer of vocal depth and stability throughout, whilst looking fabulous!

‘Harry’ was played by James Bearpark. James made this part have a lasting impact, and notably, had one of the best voices. In ‘Take what you got’ you changed the energy in the room and delivered a rich, lyrical vocal that inspired the audience to believe in Charlie’s future.

I want to note both Jordan Hamilton-Leighton’s portrayal of ‘George’ and Claire Willmer’s portrayal of ‘Trish’. Both actors were able to add such depth and warmth to these characters! Through their quirky characterisations they embodied the northern spirit and truly made the audience fall in love with them.

Joe Hodgson also impressed with his ‘Milan Stage Manager’ character. This was delivered perfectly and was just the comic relief needed after such an emotional scene earlier. You created joy, and laughter – well done.

The four children playing both ‘Young Simon’ (Arthur Martin, Jacob Robinson) , and ‘Young Charlie’ (Seth Cohen, Alfie Webster) did a sterling job in managing such a large stage, their vocal, walking in those heels, whilst holding their own against an incredible cast of adults – well done.

What impressed me most about this show was the power of the full ensemble. Throughout they synthesised energy, and created moments of joy, all while maintaining the highest standards in amateur theatre. It is in the hard work, and the wanting to make something special that sets DOS apart. Notably members of the cast styling wigs, making costumes, and doing makeup, demonstrates the vast talents within this company. The lighting design for this show was dynamic with the added use of two follow spots, this gave the production a professional flare alongside the amazing costume team that delt with enormity of costuming such a spectacle. Also, the impressive musical direction of Paul Walker and Sarah Harland ensured that this show sounded spectacular alongside the 11-piece orchestra.

Jo Hand, as always, created memorable pictures in her choreography and pushed this company to it’s limits. Her ability to tell a story and produce high quality amateur theatre is unlikened to any other within the district. I can always tell a Jo Hand show by the intricate detailing and the storytelling focus the company have – Well done.

Overall, a superb two nights of musical theatre. Can’t wait to see Dagenham

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