Kinky Boots at The Regent Review

Kinky Boots at The Regent – Review

Kinky Boots – the flashiest, stylish show in town is back in Hanley for the 2025 tour.

With book written by Harvey Feirstein, lyrics by Cyndi Lauper and directed by Nickoli
Foster this production, based on a true story, promises to bring glitz and glam to a
cold November evening – Review Mel Osbourne

Pantomime season isn’t quite here yet but Kinky Boots certainly is…

Charlie Price has inherited the family shoe factory, but is struggling to make end meets until Lola enters the scene – a drag queen who could turn life around.

After meeting at a drag club in London, Charlie spots a gap in the market and brings in an expert team to help to make Lola the perfect heels to strut.

As well as comedy and romance the show tackles issues of prejudice and celebrates individuality.

This is British Musical theatre at its finest. Alongside shows such as The Full Monty, and Brassed Off, the secret lies in producing a relatable storyline. Add a lot of sparkle, glitter and PVC and you have a production where audiences are queuing to get in – which was the case at the Regent on opening night.

(Images by Pamela Raith. Supplied by The Regent Theatre.)

West End star, Dan Partridge’s energetic portrayal of Charlie Price was fresh and modern and his character was very relatable.

It was a delight to see Courtney Bowman – another accomplished West End star – as Lauren whose stage presence lights up the stage and with amazing comedy timing and is a hit with the audience as she narrates her unrequited love for Charlie.

Lauren has an effortless belt and delivery of the ‘History of the Wrong Guys’ is flawless.

Tosh Wanagho-maud is utterly formidable as Lola delivering a dazzling performance as the fierce and slaying drag queen who dominates the stage when in costume.

A notable performer was Scot Paige as George, who was adorable as Charlie’s loyal right-hand man.

The staging contrasts the grim factory background with the bright lights of the night club scene whilst the ensemble of Lolas Angels are hilarious as they occupy the stage with en pointe choreography and playful antics.

The music is powerful, soulful and very catchy with stand out songs – What a woman Wants and I’m not my Fathers Son.

This is a powerful, poignant production delivering the all-important message of accepting people for who they are. It is always refreshing to see a cast built with experienced West End performers with undeniable talent and skill from years of training.