REVIEW: Kinky Boots (Royal & Derngate) ★★★★

Following successful runs on both the West End and Broadway, Kinky Boots is stepping out to the provinces. So where better to kick off the tour than in Northamptonshire where it all began?

Kinky Boots is based on the true story of Steve Pateman who took over an Earl’s Barton shoe factory when his father retired. Struggling with the traditional style shoe, he found a gap in the market making shoes for drag queens.

With music from Cyndi Lauper, the songs are catchy and well-penned, full of subtle references to shoes and feet. They range from the huge ensemble songs like Raise You Up to the softer, meaningful Not My Father’s Son. Others are full of humour, with both The History of Wrong Guys and What a Woman Wants poking fun at the stereotypes surrounding men.

The cast is absolutely brilliant. Joel Harper-Jackson as Charlie shows the right blend of determination and naivety in his character, with superb acting and singing.

As expected, Callum Francis steals the show as Lola, dripping with sass and charm. His stage presence is flawless, backed up by the excellent Angels.

There are a few dodgy accents, which slip into northern and even cockney at times, but the Northants accent is a bit of a strange blend so this is a minor point.

The rest of the cast bring so much energy (especially Paula Lane (Lauren) during The History of Wrong Guys) and even a disruptive fire alarm during Act II doesn’t stop the actors’ professionalism and precision.

There are a few changes for the touring production (no children for one), which does make Simon Sr’s costume at the end a bit strange, but the set, costumes and choreography are still beautiful and nothing can detract from the feel-good vibes you get from this show.

It’s loud, it’s colourful and it’s fantastic.

Reviewed by Michaela Clement-Hayes
Photo: Helen Maybanks

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