Kinky Boots - Theatre Review

A review by Suzanne Birrell.

Adam Kaplan and J.Harrison Ghee with the Angels. Photos by Matthew Murphy

Kinky Boots -WOW. The first time I saw the movie I thought this needs to be a musical and what a musical it is. With songs by Cyndi Lauper and book by Jerry Mitchell (Legally Blonde & Hairspray), Kinky Boots is iconic: everything a musical should be and more. Winner of 6 Broadway Tony awards, Kinky Boots is an absolutely a must see. Genuine story, memorable songs, spectacular costumes, incredible dancing, stellar performances, impeccable design. Wow-wow-WOW!

A great story: Charlie Price is struggling to keep the family factory in full employment and Lola needs a pair of stiletto boots that sing sex. Kinky Boots is based on a true story and has inspiration in every scene. You can change the world if you can change your mind. Sometimes the best way to fit in is to stand out. Try to accept someone for who they are. I cried and laughed and cheered throughout.

Spectacular Dancing. The choreography is awe inspiring. The dancers are breathtaking- literally collective gasps were heard in response to some of the incredible moves. The boxing match was simply beautiful. The dance with the conveyor belts was intricate and entertaining. And congratulations to the entire cast , young and old, dancers and non-dancers, who managed the ensemble dance in stiletto boots. Fun!

Wonderful and memorable songs: J. Harrison Ghee (Lola/ Simon) is both subtle and outrageous. "I am not my father's son" is one of the most heartfelt theatre songs I have ever heard and his rendition of it is soulful to say the least. Then switch to "Hold me in Your Heart" and she is brilliant. In "What a woman wants" J. Harrison Ghee vibrantly manages to be outstanding as both a he and a she. Adam Kaplan (Charlie) brought the house down with his powerful "Soul of a man." Tiffany Engen (right) as Lauren had everyone laughing till they cried with her "History of Wrong Guy's."

The costumes, needless to say, are without par. The boots do not disappoint. This show could be entertaining with just the costuming alone. The staging and set design was, as is usual at the Pantages, spectacular. An added bonus was the pre-show entertaining request to turn off our cellphones. I know it is a little thing, but I really like it when a real person welcomes the audience rather than an announcement over the P.A.

The standing ovation started immediately with the blackout. Every member of the cast received a well-deserved standing ovation.

Kinky Boots thru April 24 at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. Tuesday thru Sundays

http://hollywoodpantages.com/

4-800-982-2787

Ticket prices start at $29

Be aware, the parking has gone up to $18.

A reminder: The Red line stops right across the street.