Stories with a moral or message are always my favourite.
This story has six! And the fact that it’s based on true events makes it even more exciting.

“Kinky Boots” is an exhilarating show based on the movie of the same name.

The outstanding star was Ron Abelita as Lola/Simon and he seductively and emotionally stole the show from the moment he stepped onstage!
From boy to woman to man, Lola gives us hope that we can all find ourselves in life.

The director, Gordon Combes, together with a multi-talented cast and crew, were superb on Opening Night. They achieved an entertaining balance between drab, dull, boring English industrial life and the stimulating, sensational, emotional life of drag queens!

The musical Director, Paul Sinkerton and his band were also excellent, although at times too loud for us to hear the lyrics.

Sarah Williams’ choreography was very good – the cast must have practised in their high stiletto boots for weeks to not only walk, but also dance in them!

Although Warren Logan’s portrayal of Don was a real Alpha male, his dialogue with Lola after the boxing match showed a depth of development in his life. He could change and accept others.

Jemma McCulloch as Lauren, was suitably dumbfounded and then powerful with her clear singing voice which soared over the orchestra and audience. Although none of the songs were familiar, Cindy Lauper’s music and lyrics made the show sparkle.

The Angels costumes, makeup and wigs by Vanessa Lee Shirley were appropriately loud, glittery and over the top. Their singing and dancing was a delight, I just didn’t know which one to watch! And the way they could all dance easily in high boots puts most women to shame! It was a tribute to Costume Designer Ann Humphries who can make men to look sexy in women’s clothes, and create a balance of colour and style in the clothes and footwear
of all the cast.

The set design was excellent – smooth transitions were handled well. I especially enjoyed Lauren’s song with the “air gun” and the use of the conveyor belts, which were extensively used in many scenes and dances! Cudos to the set designers and builders.

Ian Andrew as Charlie Price did a great performance, and I was told that he had only been rehearsing for the last 3 weeks!

I would have liked to see a list of songs in the program, however it was great to see photos of the actors and actresses without their makeup and costumes!

The rest of the cast were superb, with too many to mention individually.

I highly recommend you go and see this great show before it
ends on 5 October.

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