Not dragged yourself to the West End to see Kinky Boots yet? Don’t loaf about. Slap on the glitter and slip on those heels and make your way down to see the most fabulous show in town. But before you do, here’s all you need to know about it.
The backstory
The show is based on the 2005 film of the same name. The film written by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth is inspired by the true story of the young owner of a struggling shoe factory in northern England who found an unlikely business partner which changed his life forever.
Shortly after the film was released, Geoff and Tim realised the touching and glitzy story would make a brilliant musical. Four years after the show’s conception a creative team – including Cyndi Lauper – was assembled and Kinky Boots The Musical went into development.
In October 2012, it made its world premiere at Bank of America Theatre in Chicago before making its Broadway debut at Al Hirschfeld Theatre in April 2013.
Despite being pit against Matilda The Musical, it swept the 2013 Tony Awards receiving a staggering 13 nominations and winning 6.
When it came to the West End, it met rave reviews and received seven Olivier Award nominations, taking home three – including the Best New Musical award.
What’s Kinky Boots about?
It tells the true story of Charlie Price – a young man who inherits a shoe factory in Northampton. But the business is failing and if he doesn’t do something fast, his whole workforce will face unemployment. But, on one fateful night, Charlie meets Lola – a cabaret performer in need of some rather sturdy stilettos.
With Lola’s help, Charlie creates a brand new line of shoes for a very particular clientele, and both their lives change forever.
What age is Kinky Boots appropriate for?
The show is recommended for audiences aged 8 and over. Parental discretion is advised due to mild adult content.
How long is Kinky Boots?
The show is 2 hours and 30 minutes including one interval. Performances are normally at 7.30pm Monday to Saturday, with matinee performances at 2.30pm on Wednesday and Saturday.
Where is Kinky Boots playing in London?
It’s currently playing at Adelphi Theatre on The Strand. The nearest stations to the show are Charing Cross (350m), Covent Garden (500m) or Embankment (500m). You can also get to the Adelphi Theatre via overground train to London Charing Cross (350m).
Will Kinky Boots be touring?
Yes, it will! Later this year, it will be engaging on a UK tour. It’ll start in Northampton (the city the show is based in) in September 2018 and conclude in Southampton in September 2019. Until then, the only place to see it will be at the Adelphi Theatre.
Who is in the Kinky Boots cast?
There are eight young actors in the cast, plus six fierce drag queens.
- Lola is played by Simon-Anthony Rhoden. Simon-Anthony’s previous credits include If I Should Stay and Vernon God Little. The role of Lola was famously played by Matt Henry who won an Olivier Award for his performance.
- Charlie Price is played by Oliver Tompsett. Oliver’s appeared in many West End shows including Wicked and We Will Rock You. Killian Donnelly originated the role in the West End and was nominated for an Olivier Award for his performance.
- Lauren is played by Natalie McQueen. Natalie has starred in Les Mis and Wonderland.
- Don is played by Sean Needham. You may recognise Sean from his appearances in Mamma Mia!, Wicked, and Our House.
- Nicola is played by Bleu Woodward. Bleu was the original understudy of Nicola and when Cordelia Farnworth went on maternity leave, Bleu took the role. Cordelia will be returning to the role of Nicola this year.
- George is played by Anthony Reed. Anthony has travelled the world to perform in shows such as Mamma Mia! and Annie.
Will I like Kinky Boots?
If you like fun, you’ll love this. It’s a heartwarming story of acceptance and triumph with songs from Cyndi Lauper and some of London’s best drag performers. It’s great fun for all the family and it’ll make you want to invest in some spangly thigh-highs and live your best life.
Where can I buy tickets to Kinky Boots?
Right here with us! Just visit Official London Theatre’s Kinky Boots page to find the best available tickets for great prices.