Hall for Cornwall, Truro, Cornwall until Saturday 1 March 2025
Reviewed by Kerry Gilbert
5*****
‘It’s no surprise this feel good, fabulous production is selling out, with enough glamour and sparkle to light up a room’
A brand-new production of Kinky Boots is at the Hall for Cornwall this week courtesy of Made at Curve. Directed by the Curve’s Artistic Director Nikolai Foster with choreography by Leah Hill and music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper, it is a fine rendition of this extremely popular musical which has already won just about every major Best Musical award.
Based on the 2005 film by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth, Harvey Fierstein’s book tells the story of Charlie Price who, having begrudgingly inherited a failing shoe factory from his father, forms an unlikely partnership with cabaret performer and drag queen, Lola, to produce a line of high-heeled boots and save the business.
It was a sellout show, and from the start the atmosphere was electric, with the anticipation building in the audience, the orchestra soon grasped everybody’s attention with the opening of the show! It is a show that radiates positivity, celebrating individuality and kindness in a way that feels more important than ever.
Once Johannes Radebe walks on stage as Lola, it is hard to focus your attention anywhere else, with his magnetic charm. Fans of 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. 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.
One of key pivotal moments is when Lola reveals himself as Simon from Clacton, wearing his male clothing and meets Charlie with honesty and bravery. It’s the only moment where Radebe has to peel back the layers and act rather than perform. He rises to the challenge, with quiet authenticity and restraint. His solo/duet with Charlie of ‘I’m Not My Father’s Son’ is extremely moving. The presence of the two talented young actors playing Young Charlie (Joshua Beswick) and Young Lola (Lawrence Ndola-Myers) adds to the emotional impact.
Courtney Bowman as Lauren is an absolute spotlight. Her comedic facial expressions are perfection, and her performance of ‘The History of Wrong Guys’ is a show highlight, packed with incredible vocals and the right mix of awkward charm and hilarity.
It’s no surprise this feel good, fabulous production is selling out, with enough glamour and sparkle to light up a room. Kinky Boots will lift you up and leave you with a big grin on your face. A full standing ovation and cheers from the audience were thoroughly deserved.