Leicester Curve, Thursday 23^rd January 2025

Kinky Boots started out life as a 2005 British film loosely based on the true story of a failing shoe factory who diversified into footwear of a more adult nature in order to save their business.  Starring Chiwetel Ejiofor and Joel Edgerton, the potential of the film to become a stage musical was quickly recognised. With book by gay icon Harvey Fierstein and music and lyrics by 80s pop legend Cyndi Lauper, the musical version gained a huge following and became a Tony and Olivier award winning hit.

The show tells the story of Charlie Price who, following the death of his father, reluctantly returns to his hometown of Northampton to take on the family shoe business. Realising the poor financial state of the operation Charlie decides his only option is to close the factory and make its group of loyal workers unemployed. A chance encounter with a drag queen fighting off a bunch of thugs introduces Charlie to the fabulous high-heeled world of Lola and her entourage. After Charlie hears of Lola’s dilemma that women’s boots cannot stand up to the rigours of drag queen life, she challenges him to make a boot more suited to her needs. When the first attempt doesn’t meet her specifications, Lola reluctantly agrees to stay in Northampton with the mission of designing something decidedly sexier. Lola’s presence at the factory is not warmly welcomed by some however, whose fear of those who tread an unconventional path leads to tension and discrimination.

From the moment Johannes Radebe walks on stage as Lola, it is hard to focus one’s attention anywhere else, such is his magnetic charm. Fans of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing (where Radebe shot to fame) hoping to witness some sparkling choreography are not disappointed. Radebe has a pleasant singing voice, but it is his immense presence and command of the stage which are most exhilarating for the audience. He effortlessly transitions from unapologetic high camp to heartbreaking tenderness.

As Charlie, Dan Partridge is an accomplished performer with an attractive voice. His portrayal of a young man’s conflict between following his own wishes and fulfilling the hopes and dreams of his father is convincing and heartfelt. Charlie and Lola acknowledge the pain they both shared in not living up to their fathers’ expectations in the stunningly beautiful number I’m Not My Father’s Son. The presence of two talented young actors playing Young Charlie (Leo Hollingsworth) and Young Lola (Sekhani Dumezweni) adds to the emotional impact. 

Kara Lily Hayworth plays Nicola, Charlie’s girlfriend whilst Courtney Bowman as factory worker Lauren finds herself falling for her new boss. Bowman’s vocal talent and powerful belt delight the audience in her showpiece number The History of Wrong Guys. One minor quibble is that there isn’t enough time given to allow the romance between Charlie and Lauren to blossom, so the final coming together feels a bit too contrived.

Elsewhere on the factory floor, Don played by Joe Caffrey is the brusque worker who challenges Lola on what it means to be a ‘real’ man. In contrast Scott Paige as George needs little encouragement to embrace his feminine side. Both Caffrey and Paige create some of the show’s stand-out funny moments.

An industrial set provides the scenic backdrop to the production which transforms seamlessly from factory floor to Lola’s club and even a fashion runway complete with Anna Wintour lookalike. Costumes are bold and brilliant with huge attention to detail from every sequined corset to the retro 90s carrier bags.

In a week where the dawn of a new presidential era in the USA already has already begun to roll back the rights of LGBTQ+ citizens, the message of acceptance and understanding that underlies this show needs to be heard loud and clear. This stunning, slick and sexy production has a huge heart and brings the audience to its feet. Kinky Boots is a sparkly beacon of hope that urges us to just be our unique, fabulous and distinctive selves.

Developed at Curve in conjunction with Royo, this new production of Kinky Boots continues at Curve Leicester until January 25^th prior to a tour of the UK and Ireland. Directed by Nikolai Foster. Choreography by Leah Hill. Set and costumes by Robert Jones.