Kinky Boots Review

PLAYHOUSE THEATRE, EDINBURGH – UNTIL 05 JANUARY 2019.

REVIEWED BY SIOBHAN RICHARDSON

5*****

Unfortunately, I can only give this show 5 stars when I think it is a very strong 12/5. Absolutely hooked from start to finish. The story of young men trying to discover who they are in the world is one any young adult can relate to. In this modern age of more gender fluidity this story is suitable for everybody and is all inclusive in the most phenomenal way.

Forced to take over the family business Charlie (Joel Harper-Jackson) find his inspiration in the most unlikely of friendships with Lola/Simon (Callum Francis), to save the factory & the lively hood of the close nit family of workers. The chemistry between Joel and Callum is palpable, making their camaraderie on stage seem effortless. The slight corpsing during one scene shows that they are thoroughly enjoying the experience which clearly spilled over into the audience.

Cyndi Lauper’s score took you on a roller coaster of emotions. From everyone belly laughing at The History of Wrong Guys performed perfectly by Lauren (Paula Lane), to the breathtaking Hold me in Your Heart by Lola which had audience members living every word and on their feet applauding.

There was a pause in the production where we are advised to stay in our seats and the lighting came up. The audience don’t know why this happened but as it was just before the finale it added to the anticipation. People were looking around thinking maybe the crew were going to strut their stuff down the aisles. They did not, but it did not take away from the incredible final scene with everyone dancing in sky high heels that I wouldn’t even be able to stand in never mind pull half the moves they were. They brought the roof down and finished to a more than deserved repetitious standing ovation.

If you do not have your tickets yet – what are you waiting for? I’m off to buy the DVD to keep me ticking over until I can see it again in Glasgow next year.