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Theatre Review: Kinky Boots ****

Michael Cox reviews a production filled with 'heart, wit and cracking musical numbers'.

Kinky Boots was a modest British indie hit when it was released in 2005. Who knew one of its stars would go on to international stardom. And who knew it would lead to a musical theatre adaptation—one that would not only take Broadway and the West End by storm but would win Tonys and Oliviers.

Charlie Price is the next in line to take over the family business: Price & Son, a men’s shoe manufacturer. His fiancée is all set for them to chuck it all in for a glamorous life in London, and the fact the factory is financially under water certainly supports the notion to sell out and move on. But a chance encounter with Lola, a drag performer, convinces him the future of Price & Son lies not in the past but in the future by creating extravagant men’s high heel boots for a ‘niche market’.

There is not much here that can’t be predicted within five minutes. Will Lola and Charlie move on from their fathers’ shadows and be able to work together? Will the factory workers overcome prejudices? Will they all succeed in convincing the world that their Kinky Boots line is worth investment and save the factory?

In truth: who cares? This is not about wondering what happens next but instead is about spending time with characters we can easily empathise with. Not only that, but we are given such heart that it’s nearly impossible not to fall under its charming spell.

And the cast is uniformly terrific. Joel Harper-Jackson’s Charlie is an underdog easy to root for, even when he makes obvious dumb mistakes, and the supporting company is populated with a number of charismatic performers who shine in their individual moments. But the show’s heart lies within the character of Lola, and here we are given a triumphant performance by Kayi Ushe, who commands the stage in every aspect, from personality to song and movement.

Harvey Fierstein’s book isn’t just a ‘connect the dots’ affair but presents moments that allow the characters time to connect and has some nice dramatic and comedic beats. However, Cyndi Lauper’s music and score is an utter blast—unsurprising considering her hits, yet making the case that she should have come to dramatic theatre long ago.

Kinky Boots might stumble on originality, but with such heart, wit and cracking musical numbers, it’s a kick from start to finish.

Runs at the Edinburgh Playhouse until January 5th, 2019 before continuing its tour.

Tags: theatre

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