Bristol Hippodrome theatre review: Kinky Boots
Vivienne Kennedy reviews Kinky Boots, playing at The Bristol Hippodrome until Saturday 9 March 2019.
In summary, I have a new favourite musical. I have looked forward to seeing Kinky Boots since I first read about it being adapted for stage as a musical, and I wasn’t disappointed for a moment – it is fabulous and I want to see it again; many times if possible.
Based on the 2005 film, which itself was based on a true story, Kinky Boots tells the story of Charlie, the ‘& Son’ in Price & Son, the very traditional Northampton shoe factory he has inherited from his father. He discovers that when you’re down on your uppers, you sometimes need to think out of the (shoe) box, to get the reboot you need.
As musical theatre goes, this show ticks all my boxes.
As well as a strong story, one with ups and downs along the way before a thoroughly happy ending is reached, Kinky Boots also delivers a strong message, about overcoming prejudice by learning to accept everyone for who they are, but it’s not preachy in any way. And it’s full of great songs (music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper) and fantastic dance routines, one of which makes brilliant use of the factory’s conveyor belts.
There were no weak links among the cast but I particularly enjoyed the performances of Kayi Ushe as drag queen Lola, Joel Harper-Jackson as Charlie, and Demitri Lampra as factory-worker Don.
When I first started reviewing almost every press night at The Bristol Hippodrome would see a standing ovation; it said more about a show on the rare occasion there wasn’t one. Over the past couple of years that seems to have changed, with some shows it’s built into the performance, the audience told to get on their feet for the final musical numbers, but otherwise it’s not a given any more. It says a lot about Kinky Boots that last night we were all on our feet for a standing ovation that was both heart-felt and well-deserved.
As Lola would say, this is a show for “ladies, gentlemen and those who have yet to make up their minds”; and I would add if you’re up for a totally feel-good night out, that will leave you grinning from ear to ear, you should get yourself a ticket.
For further information, and to book online, go to atgtickets.com
Photo: Helen Maybanks
