Theatre Royal Brighton – 25th – 29th March 2025
5 stars
Kinky Boots is a breath of fresh air with catchy songs, stunning performances and a feel-good message. Based on a true story, this musical follows Charlie Price, who unexpectedly inherits his family’s failing shoe factory.
Just as things look hopeless, he crosses paths with Lola, a fierce drag queen with a taste for glamour and a need for sturdy high heels. What follows is a journey of self-acceptance and some seriously fabulous footwear.
Dan Partridge plays Charlie with warmth, showcasing a great voice and making him a relatable everyman caught between duty and ambition.
Newtion Matthews as Lola owns the stage. With a powerhouse voice and commanding presence, he blends sass and vulnerability effortlessly. Whether belting out showstoppers or delivering quieter, emotional moments, he captivates the audience. It is impossible not to root for him.
Lola’s Angels, a troupe of high-kicking drag performers, add energy and hilarious comedy. Courtney Bowman also shines as Lauren, bringing humour and a knockout voice, especially in The History of Wrong Guys. Scott Paige as George delivers an endearing performance with plenty of laughs.
Cyndi Lauper’s score is packed with energy and heart. From the sultry Land Of Lola and Sex Is In The Heel to the emotional Soul Of A Man and Not My Father’s Son. every song lands perfectly. The final song, Raise You Up/Just Be has the whole theatre clapping along and gaining a standing ovation.
Visually, the show is stunning. The factory setting shifts seamlessly to glamorous club scenes, with creative staging keeping the action moving.
Beyond the sparkle and the spectacle, Kinky Boots carries a powerful message about being true to yourself, modern masculinity and accepting others as they are.
