Kinky Boots

I had the pleasure of attending Sunderland Theatre Company's production of "Kinky Boots" at the Royalty Theatre, Sunderland. From the moment the curtain rose, it was clear that this was going to be an unforgettable performance.  In fact, even before with a really novel introduction from Stephen Fay in character reminding audiences to turn their phones off – or else!

The show was characterized by high energy and slick scene changes, which demonstrated the meticulous planning and dedication of the production team.  Scenery was in the form of small flats supplied by Brightstar Light & Sound which the cast decorated and were absolutely perfect for the small venue space. The transitions were seamless, maintaining the pace and momentum of the show, and allowing the audience to remain fully immersed in the story.

The use of the small stage was nothing short of excellent. The creative staging and choreography made full use of the space, ensuring that every scene was dynamic and visually engaging, even managing to create a catwalk in the small space. The clever set design and efficient use of props allowed for fluid movements and scene transitions, which added to the overall professional standard of the production.  I’d expect nothing less from Brian Waldock-Leach whose creative flair always stands out.  Musical director Gemma Smith brought the best out of the cast who sounded excellent against the performance tracks.  I loved the choreography from Karen McKenzie too, again cleverly utilising the ability of the cast to perfection and breaking from traditionally expected routines seen in professional productions with her own flair.  The small space was used very well.

Lighting provided from Brightstar Light & Sound was superb, as was sound from East Durham Audio.  Well done guys!

A standout performance came from Luke McGarey in the role of Lola. Luke was simply unreal, embodying the character with confidence, charisma, and a powerful stage presence. His portrayal was both moving and entertaining, capturing the essence of Lola with authenticity and flair. His timing was immaculate delivering Lola’s pertinent message of acceptance but also the comedic lines were never lost and delivered perfectly.  Incredible performance Luke, I really hope you’re incredibly proud of yourself.  He was well-supported by his Angels, who were a credit to both the character and the society played by Kristan Bailey, Nathan Dippie, Kieran Donnelly, Daniel Dryden, Christian Hogan and Mackenzie Moreland. Their performances were vibrant, full of energy, and added an extra layer of brilliance to the show.  I literally noted down “wow” the second they appeared on stage.  Rehearsing in the heels from the start, it very much showed in their confidence and charisma as they performed and the reaction from the audience said it all.  I attended opening night and the audience was absolutely buzzing and in awe of all of them.  They looked utterly stunning, well done to make up artists Sarah Ketchin and Emma Talbott in making them look utterly fabulous.  I was on ages trying to work out who was who, you all looked so different and absolutely incredible.  Their poise and posture had clearly been worked hard, your calves can now have a break after working in those heels!   I could go on and on but I’ll run out of space.  You all were utterly superb.

Another incredible performance came from the insanely talented Michael Brabbs playing Charlie.  I always find it important when bringing a role to life that you need to get the audience to believe.  We all believed in Charlie thanks to Michael’s portrayal.  Vocally stunning, believable, genuine and just a gorgeous performance. “Soul of a Man” was beatutiful especially.  Well done Brabbsy!

Supporting roles also were played by Helen Clarke as Lauren (who was hilarious, flamboyant and playful), Olivia Bowern as Nicola, Stephen Fay as Don, Mathew Clarke as George, Rebecca Crackett as Pat, Samantha Kennedy as Trish, Richard Butler as Harry, Reece Sohdi as Richard Bailey and Cara Barella as the Milan stage manager.  I did especially like Mathew and Stephen playing parts completely different to those I’ve seen them do before.  Mathew embodied the character of George, never dropping the related posture or tone and Stephen playing the hard guy Don brilliantly, loved seeing you two do more diverse roles.

It was difficult to think what was my favorite number in the show but the delivery and choreography in “Sex is in the Heel” really stood out and the sincerety of “Not my fathers son” was absolutely gorgeous and really hit home.  The final number in Kinky Boots has always been one I’m not a fan of.  I’ve seen it professionally and twice before by amateur groups and always thought “Raise You Up” just did the opposite.  I’ve always found it a number which is disappointingly flat.  Well Sunderland Theatre Co may as well have just said “hold my beer”.  Wow!  It was exactly the opposite and genuinely better than the professional production I saw.  The energy bounding from the stage was infectious, the entire audience were on ther feet, we were immersed by the cast on all side and genuinely felt uplifted and on a high!  The lighting was incredible, really well done Mark, it made the world of a difference and I blooming loved it!  Lola and the Angels were incredible, their costuming from D Smith design were on another level uplifting everyone, cast and audience alike.

The entire cast and crew of Sunderland Theatre Company deserve immense congratulations for this excellent production. The hard work, talent, and passion that went into this performance were evident in every aspect, from the dazzling costumes and makeup to the spot-on musical numbers and heartfelt acting.  I genuinely enjoyed it more than the professional version.

In summary, Sunderland Theatre Company's "Kinky Boots" was a triumph. It was a professionally executed, high-energy show that delighted the audience from start to finish. Congratulations to everyone involved for delivering such a memorable and exceptional performance.  Keep snapping those lashes!

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