Charismatic, campy and red (no burgundy!) are just three of the thousands of words that could be used to describe the thrilling and heartwarming tale of 'Kinky Boots' and with a book by Harvey Fierstein and music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper, it's a recipe for a shimmering success.
Soaked in glitter, dripping in catchy sing-along tunes and filled with a gooey centre of heart and truth, 'Kinky Boots' explores the sheer liberation of being yourself and trying something new.
Toby Francis does brilliantly as Charlie Price, a man torn about his future after taking over his dad's shoe factory. Callum Francis shines (quite literally) as Lola, the sassy, fabulous drag queen with a tough exterior and a rough past.
With the help of an exceptionally talented principal/ensemble cast, a stunning, intricate set and a cleverly written script, this show is an unforgettable journey that features just the right amount of laughs and just the right amount of heartbreak to make it engaging and at times even genuinely thought-provoking.
Perhaps the most prominent idea presented to the audiences is the fact that it's not a crime to follow your heart regardless of what those around you suggest or insist that you do. This is a great message and one that could apply to a range of situations.
Image © Matthew Murphy
When a movie, song or theatre production is enveloped with a loose yet overt theme like 'follow your heart' or 'be yourself' it means audiences can walk away from what they've witnessed and be able to apply it to a number of aspects of their own lives. 'Kinky Boots' is an example of a show that does this and does it magnificently.
It's a musical about freedom, expression, joy, loss and love. The characters open their minds to new concepts, throw away their own misconceptions and embrace the differences of those around them. 'Kinky Boots' is necessary in 2017. It really is.
The music is beautiful. It's not one-dimensional either, there are rock, pop and disco influences sprinkled throughout so the appeal is broad and the lyrics are, as you'd expect, reminiscent of the show's themes.
If you see a show this year, see 'Kinky Boots'! With all the current turmoil in the world it's refreshing to watch a cast of extraordinary performers celebrating what it means to love and live regardless of sexuality or identity as part of a show truly bursting with bright colours, irresistibly infectious musical numbers and – perhaps most importantly – a remarkably honest soul.
★★★★★
