Written by Harvey Fierstein, music by Cyndi Lauper, based on the film written by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth
Storyhouse, Chester
May 8th-18, 2024; 2 hrs 10 mins
The film of Kinky Boots is approaching its 20th birthday and is widely seen as a funny, challenging and charming story of self discovery.
The story is based on fact: 90 per cent of Northampton's shoe industry had disappeared under the challenge of cheaper imports and high labour costs, and one struggling shoe company had to diversify to survive.
How would the impressionable new owner who inherited the business ensure its survival? A chance encounter with a drag queen he tried to save from an assault but ended up needing medical attention gave him an idea for a niche promotion in a competitive market. Why not make shoes sturdy enough for a man, but in female styles? This was the start of a collaboration and friendship that caused each to examine who they were and why they were doing what they did.
Storyhouse’s production is brimming with energy and enthusiasm, a fast-paced and at times glitzy production. The characterisations are great: Danny Becher as Charlie and Duane-Lamonte O’Garro as Lola/Simon develop a chemistry that carries the plot. Lola’s complex character is developed well - at times brash and sexually-charged, at others insecure and vulnerable.
The supporting cast members also portray their characters well, in particular Seren Sandham-Davies as Nicola, upwardly-mobile and manipulative at times; Leah Vassal as Lauren - working class, awkward but passionate, and Roddy Lynch as Don - prejudiced and aggressive at first, but eventyually brought round. The distinctive aspect of the production is the finale, labelled as "immersive" theatre: the foyer is transformed into a Milanese catwalk and the audience is invited to view the fashion show as its audience. While this innovation is a welcome one, imaginative and interesting, the movement of audience members from theatre to foyer was awkward, and the production lost momentum that was hard to recapture.
This doesn't detract from a polished, well-choreographed production that remains true to the original story and its underlying themes.
The show speaks oceans about accepting yourself and those who are "different". More than that, we also see a young entrepreneur act with consideration for his workers instead of pure profit, and the history of the factory being taken in a new direction to find a market for a changing society.
Congratulations to Storyhouse for producing a fresh, energetic performance that makes a point of encouraging young talent. The audience showed their appreciation with a well-deserved standing ovation.
More info and tickets here
