By: Darryl Reilly
The rousing second act closing number of euphoric factory workers cavorting as the outrageous boots are revealed on the conveyor belt, crystalizes the essence of Kinky Boots’ enduring appeal, achievements and entertainment value. A simple plot, an upbeat tone and the theme of inclusivity are all rendered theatrically for the stage by Jerry Mitchell’s vivid direction and exuberant choreography. Composer and lyricist Cyndi Lauper’s score is bright, eclectic and catchy. Harvey Fierstein’s (adapted from Geoff Deane and Tim Firth’s screenplay of the 2005 movie) book is funny, wise and well-structured.
Amiable Charlie Price inherits his family’s faltering Northampton, England, shoe factory upon his father’s death. Charlie’s practical fiancée devises to sell it and turn it luxury condos. Charlie, however, has a brainstorm after meeting Lola, a star drag performer. To save the factory and the workers’ jobs, they’ll now manufacture boots for drag queens. Will the Milan fashion show unveiling this unique line to the world be a success? There’s romantic complications and personal revelations along the way.
Kinky Boots opened on Broadway on April 4, 2013, and ran for six years. It’s been successfully produced in London and around the world, winning the Tony and the Olivier awards for Best Musical. Now, it has been revived Off-Broadway at the 499-seat theater, Stage 42.
Callum Francis has performed the role of Lola in London, Australia, on Broadway, and is here dynamic. Amidst Mr. Francis’s tremendous singing and dancing talents, there’s pathos and humor in abundance. The magnetically likeable Christian Douglas exhibits the command of a musical leading man with his captivating performance as Charlie. The winning Danielle Hope as a feisty factory worker who grows to have amorous feelings for Charlie, is enchanting.
Brianna Stoute, Sean Steele and Marcus Neville all score in key supporting roles. The rest of the terrific ensemble is comprised of Devin Bowles, Bella Coppola, Nick Drake, Ian Gallagher Fitzgerald, Ryan Halsaver, Matthew Michael Janisse, Lindsay Joan, Kevin Smith Kirkwood, Marty Lauter, Tommy Martinez, Ryah Nixon, Lucas Pastrana, Liz Pearce, Ricky Schroeder, David J. Socolar, Ebrin R. Stanley, Tarion Strong, Ernest T. Williams, and Maria Wirries.
David Rockwell’s clever and evocative scenic design seamlessly represents various locales. Costume designer Gregg Barnes’ magnificent creations range from the everyday to the grandiose. Josh Marquette’s hair design and Darion Matthews’ make-up design artfully assist the drag factor. Lighting designer Kenneth Posner and sound designer Gareth Owen’s high caliber contributions enhance the viewing experience.
This sensational smaller-scale presentation of Kinky Boots magnifies all its virtues.
Kinky Boots (open run)
Stage 42, 422 West 42nd Street, in Manhattan
For tickets, call 800-447-7400 or visit www.kinkybootsthemusical.com
Running time: two hours and 30 minutes including one intermission