Kinky Boots, the Broadway musical phenomenon nominated for best musical, is all about accepting everyone for who they are, but most importantly accepting yourself. Kinky Boots speaks from the heart and reaches out to all of its audience members. It is a story that deserves to be heard and understood by everyone. This story concerns friendship, loss, ridicule, patience, confusion, rejection, judgement, anger, sadness, happiness and acceptance while blending each one extraordinarily well.
The story starts when main character, Charlie Price, after his father’s demise, inherits the family business, a shoe factory in Northampton, England. He is not interested in shoes, and the factory is in such poor financial straits that he must lay off 15 employees. However, a fortuitous encounter with a transvestite cabaret singer, Lola, inspires Charlie to save the factory from closure by producing erotic footwear, much to the exasperation of the workers.
Throughout the journey of learning to “step” out of your comfort zone and how to keep going when everything is seeming falling apart, Lola and Charlie construct a unique bond of dependence, understanding compassion and newfound acceptance towards each other as the musical progresses. Kinky Boots is the true definition of strength and teamwork, as it shows the audience how to deal with the past and bad decisions you made.
If you haven’t already got the hint, the performance of Kinky Boots was stellar both times I was fortunate enough to experience this heartfelt musical. Specifically on July 23rd and August 30th, the execution of the production was star-studded. In addition to the performance being outstanding, the design elements of the production were also incredible. The lighting was unique and appropriate, varying on the mood of the scene. The pit was impressive and the unpredictable beats kept the audience on their feet.
The costumes couldn’t have been anymore astounding, the shimmering outfits, each one screaming with its own personality definitely showed a lot about the character who wore it. The makeup went hand in hand with the costumes – it was really impressive. Don’t even get me started on the choreography. Have you ever seen multiple people doing flips and splits simultaneously on real conveyor belts in six-inch heels? I hadn’t either, at least, until I experienced this magical show. The choreography was actually the most mind-boggling part. As soon as the audience saw some of the heels, they screamed of excitement. You would never be able to believe the talent of each performer.
Some scenes depict mature topics which is why I wouldn’t recommend the musical for children under twelve without parental approval. Aside from that, there isn’t anyone I wouldn’t recommend this show to. If you’re looking for entertainment, you’ve hit the jackpot with Kinky Boots. It deserves every award and nomination it has earned and many more. On top of the miraculous performance, the actors have a signing session after each show. The actors are all unbelievably friendly and appreciative when complimented. They will answer any questions you have while they sign your playbill or other merchandise. Upon request, they are more than happy to take a picture with you. It’s astonishing how welcoming and cheerful every actor is. Kinky Boots is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience that may just be the thing to get you back on your feet.