Kinky Boots the Musical

This show was the obvious choice for this society to do following their successful production of “Priscilla, Queen of the Desert” in 2022 – and thank goodness they did. With a great set, excellent lighting by Paul Reynolds, over-the-top costumes for the Angels and superb dancing, acting and singing from principals and ensemble alike this was a veritable feast for the eyes and ears. Joshua Milne as Charlie Price, reluctant heir to the failing family shoe making factory, gave a very strong portrayal of a young man torn between what he thought his late father wanted him to do and his own aspirations as shown in his rendition of his solo “Charlie’s Soliloquy” and in his duet “Not My Father’s Son” with Lola/Simon. He was equally at home taking the lead in the more up tempo numbers like the Act 1 closing “Everybody Say Yeah” and his attempts to walk in the high-heeled boots at the Milan fashion show had the audience in stitches. Rhianne Reid Armstrong as Lauren, Charlie’s long time friend and right hand at the factory, gave an excellent portrayal of a strong, common sensed woman but who had been hiding her romantic feelings for Charlie and her rendition of “The History of Wrong Guys” received sounds of recognition from many in the audience. Nicola, Charlie’s fiance focussed only on bettering herself, as played by Laura Burnett was another excellent portrayal of an independently minded woman. Gavin McKay gave a really strong performance as the macho factory worker Don especially in his interactions with Lola/Simon. Ryan Peacock too gave a strong portrayal of George, the factory manager always ready to offer support to Charlie. Strong support was given by Cath Munro (Pat), Sarah Dawson (Trish), Kenneth Lypka (Charlie’s friend Harry), Andrew Begg (Mr Price), Matthew Rose (Richard), Emmah Chibesakunda(Milan stage manager) and not forgetting the Angels (Aiden Colquhoun, Callum Anderson, Jordan Lee, Mikey Stewart, Ross Robertson and Roy MacQueen). However the show belonged to Jordan Abberley-Nicoll who was magnificent as Lola/Simon. His portrayals of the take-me-as-I-am, confident drag queen Lola and the uncomfortable-in-his-skin Simon were both spot on. His singing was extremely strong whether in the up-beat numbers like “Sex is in the Heel” or the heart rending ballad “Hold Me In Your Heart” sung in his father’s nursing home. How he and the Angels managed the dance numbers in those heels without damaging their ankles is a miracle! Gavin, Rhonda, Victoria and everyone involved in the production are to be congratulated on bringing a superb show to the His Majesty’s stage.

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