The Brilliant Kinky Boots Delights Wolverhampton
The glorious, gorgeous Kinky Boots has arrived in Wolverhampton this week, bringing it’s own brand of sass and sequins to the Grand Theatre. The Brilliant, award winning show received a standing ovation at the end of its press night last night, proving that when it comes to a combination of warmth and glamour, there is no better show around.
Kinky Boots is the story of a man who inherites a failing shoe factory in Northampton, at the point of closure, when a chance meeting with a Drag Queen called Lola gives him an idea to save his business by making shoes for men who like to dress as woman. Joining forces with Lola as designer, he sets his factory on a new track, facing opposition from many, not least his girlfriend Nicola, with dreams of London in her sights, and the oafish Don, one of his key workers. Will he be able to create the perfect boots for showing at the trade show in Milan, and maybe just learn something about himself along the way.
Kinky Boots is all about the two central characters, factory owner Charlie Price, and drag queen Lola. As Charlie, Joel Harper-Jackson is perfect, a delightful mixture of insecurity and drive and able to convey the mixed emotions perfectly. Lola was played on this occasion by Kayo Ushe. He was sensational, so sassy and at times hilarious, but also so poignant, especially when singing the beautiful ‘Hold me in your heart’.
The supporting cast was equally good, Paula Lane is a sweet and funny Lauren, yearning for her boss, whilst Helen Ferment makes a prickly Nicola. Dimitri Lampra is hilarious as the Neanderthal man Don, providing some of the funniest and most heart warming moments. Adam Price is also wonderful as factory foreman George.
The factory setting is brilliantly evoked due to The clever set designs, and the outfits worn by Lola and her angels are a visual sequined delight. The musical numbers all work really well, particularly the vibrant ‘everybody say yeah and the showstopping ‘raise me up/Just be finale.
Kinky Boots is perfect feel good entertainment that keeps a smile on your face long after you leave the theatre. I loved it.
Kinky Boots
Wolverhampton Grand
Until 27th October
Click here for ticket information