Kinky Boots the Musical strutted into Belfast’s Grand Opera House last night in a dazzling blaze of colour, charisma, and choreography, lighting up the evening with style, soul, and sky-high heels.
This uplifting Broadway and West End smash hit boasts a standout cast, including Strictly Come Dancing’s Johannes Radebe, Dan Partridge (Grease), Courtney Bowman (Six), and Scott Paige (The Addams Family), each bringing their own spark to the stage.
Based on a true story and the hit film, Kinky Boots pairs a Tony and Grammy Award-winning score by pop icon Cyndi Lauper with a witty, life-affirming book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein. Under the direction of Nikolai Foster (Grease, An Officer and a Gentleman), the production delivers everything it promises – laughter, love, and a whole lot of fabulous.
The story follows Charlie Price, who inherits his family’s struggling shoe factory and discovers an unlikely path to success with the help of Lola, a fierce and fabulous drag queen whose vision and verve may be the factory’s saving grace.
While casting Johannes Radebe as Lola might initially seem like a marketing move to draw in the Strictly audience, his performance is nothing short of a revelation – commanding, compassionate, and utterly magnetic, he gives Broadway’s Billy Porter a serious run for his money. Courtney Bowman’s portrayal of Lauren steals scenes with pitch-perfect comic timing and some of the night’s biggest laughs.
With its message of acceptance, resilience, and staying true to yourself, Kinky Boots is the perfect celebration of individuality – and never more so than during Pride month. This joyous, high-energy production will leave you uplifted, inspired, and maybe even dancing in your seat.
For more information or to book tickets click here.
