REVIEW: Kinky Boots at Newcastle Tyne Theatre

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Kinky Boots

Newcastle Tyne Theatre & Opera House

Until Saturday 19 November 2022

Tickets are available from our affiliates Eventim UK:  TICKET LINK

A production of sequins, sparkles and upbeat pop music, Starlight Theatre Productions presents Kinky Boots, for their first evening tonight at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House, and they did not disappoint.

Previously a non-musical film, adapted by Broadway legend Harvey Fierstein, and musical icon Cyndi Lauper, the famous feel-good musical we all now love, focuses on Charlie Price, and his drag queen companion Lola, revamping the family shoe business, to design beautiful heels for the drag queen "niche market".

The story starts as Charlie Price (Michael Skoyles) begins a move to London with his girlfriend Nicola (Anna Makepeace), as a result of his lack of aspiration to be the fourth generation to take on the family shoe-making business. When his father unexpectedly passes away Charlie is required to return and take on the running of the failing business, searching desperately for ideas to support his lifelong friends who now depend on him. On a business trip to London, Charlie meets drag queen Lola, who inspires an unlikely change of events, which lead to the creation of "Lola's Kinky Boots". The story sees Lola challenging some of the attitudes and values of the factory workers, including Don (Charles Doherty) and even Charlie himself, after all "you change the world, when you change your mind". 

A stand out performance from James Forster as Lola, left members of the audience in awe as he flawlessly commanded the stage. His vocals were outstanding throughout the show, especially in his rendition of "Hold me in your heart".

Lola's entourage- The Angels- strutted their stuff on stage, as part of a very talented and highly energetic casting. The cheerful choreography throughout and live band encouraged this, as members of the ensemble were able to indulge in the show-stopping nature of the performance.

One of the highlights of the show is how the 4 lead performers, including Helen Cash in the role of Lauren, worked seamlessly together to tell the story, upbeat and vibrant when required, while really emphasising the thought-provoking nature needed during important numbers such as "I'm not my father's son".

On the technical side, the costumes brought the characters to life, showing the glitz and glamour of the drag-queen life, laden with sparkles and beautiful fabrics for the Angels, and Lola, while the factory workers wore more realistic outfits for their roles. And of course, the famous, gorgeous red heels played a huge part!

In some places throughout the performance, the sound could have done with some changes. Microphones of lead performers being turned on late, or being very quiet, meant some of the important aspects of songs were not emphasised as expected. This was most clear in the performance of "Raise You Up" toward the end of the show, however this criticism is minor, compared to the rest of the performance.

The audience clearly enjoyed the evening, with many standing to enjoy the finale, dancing and cheering along as the cast confidently ended their first performance, after an unfortunate two years of postponements.

Starlight Theatre Productions presents Kinky Boots is at the Tyne Theatre until Saturday 19th November, including a Saturday matinee. Do not miss out!

Review: Teri Hall

Tickets are available from our affiliates Eventim UK: TICKET LINK