The ultimate feel good show is back, touring the U.K. and Ireland with a stellar cast and an all important story of acceptance. This production of Kinky Boots could well be my favourite show of the year so far! It’s a Kinky revolution and I’m living for it!
Telling the true story of a shoe factory in Northampton where they create boots for a very specific niche market after a close encounter with a vivacious Drag Queen, Kinky Boots is filled with infectious songs written by Cyndi Lauper and full out choreography by Leah Hill. It's very much a feast for the eyes aswell as the ears.
Johannes Radebe, who catapulted to stardom through his time on Strictly Come Dancing was born to play Lola. From the moment he sashays onto the stage it’s clear that the Land of Lola is in very capable hands. The array of costumes, wigs and incredible boots on display radiated off the stage, so a big shout out to the WHAM teams! Johannes really encapsulated the very essence of who Lola is, with an impeccable range of emotion shown throughout the more tender moments of ‘Not My Fathers Son’ which really was a stand out goosebump moment. Of course Lola also has a very flamboyant side which Johannes served up like the totally fabulous person he is! Bravo Johannes, bravo!
The rest of the cast also shone, including Dan Partridge as Charlie Price. A very confident performance with incredible vocals made for a wonderful interpretation of this character, working with such warm chemistry beside Johannes, making their on stage relationship completely believable. Courtney Bowman as Lauren provided every inch an outstanding performance, especially during ‘The History of Wrong Guys’. With exquisite comedic timing, it was a delight to see her perform. Similar could be said for Scott Paige as George, the Factory Foreman, who is so watchable. During every scene my eyes are drawn in his direction due to his extraordinary ability to please. Every facial expression, every movement is just so joyously extroverted, I absolutely love watching him in action. We need more sunshine like Scott on our stages!
Director Nikolai Foster really has breathed new life into this well loved show. The set being completely multi use, with an upstairs office space and factory floor comprising of metal beams and an impressive light box elevated the overall feel of the set. Lighting by Ben Cracknell is as spectacular as the show itself, with impressive displays of colour and vibrancy.
I completely adored this new production of Kinky Boots, as you can probably tell. So much so, that I’ve immediately booked again! I think that’s the best recommendation I can give! So kick off those heels and run to your nearest theatre to witness this 5-star show for yourself! It will definitely raise you up!
This show was reviewed on the 15th April 2025 at the Birmingham Hippodrome where it runs until the 19th April 2025. Tickets available here: Kinky Boots – Birmingham Hippodrome
Review written by Emma Rowley
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Photo credit: Pamela Raith & Johan Persson
You can watch my interview with Scott Paige here: https://youtu.be/-O4w9D33Oxs?si=DIdqB6a-VndrUxme
Check out other reviews from Curtain Call Reviews and get in touch to have our reviewers head to your show.
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