Sometimes it’s best going into things, not knowing everything. .or anything at all. Such could be the case with the Mirvish production of Kinky Boots. If you’re going in thinking it’s all about kinks and such, then you’re wrong (sort of). However, it is about being Kinky, in a Lola (sort of) way, but it’s more about the boots…ah those long, lanky, sexy boots!

It begins with the entire cast on the multi-tired stage, and ends with the entire cast front and centre stage…and with a lot more shine and glitter. Simply put, it’s the story about two different, but similar individuals. Charlie tried to leave the family shoe business to make a life of his own, but upon the death of his father he finds himself at the helm of the failing family shoe empire. Lola knew she was different from the start. Different from society, and definitely different from her father. She spends her nights as a cabaret performer, until a chance meeting of these two individuals brings them together to save the world…one boot at a time. It’s actually based on a true story as well.

Already a smash Broadway hit, major motion picture written by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth, and best selling book written by Harvey Fierstein, there’s no way the theatre production could fail. Oh, and toss in music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper, and choreography by the famed Jerry Mitchell, and you’re (sort of) guaranteed a hit production.

Comparisons can be made to the similar genre-defying, edgy, and provocative tales that were told in Rent, Rocky Horror Picture Show, and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Rambunctious stage antics, killer outfits, and lot’s of singing and dancing makes for an spectacular evening of entertainment.

Underlying with all this sash and flash is the message that we are all individuals, and we should accept each other for who we are, not how we perceive someone should be. One must remember this is a mainstream theatre production, where the majority of the audience are being exposed to some topics that are most likely unfamiliar to them, at least in any grand way. So while there are some situations where some individuals of the LGBT community may gasp and want get all politically correct, take a breath and realize that this is for entertainment purposes only.

There are moments that lag in the two-and-a-half-hour show, but the glittery ending is well worth it. Alan Mingo Jr. gives a stellar performance as Lola, and her gaggle of drag queens aren’t too shabby either, especially when doing the splits and back flips…in heels!

The Toronto production takes place at the Royal Alexandra Theatre, a historic three-tiered venue that’s apparently destined for demolition…for what else, condos of course. So take this opportunity to throw on some (red) boots and strut on down to catch this before the year ends.

Kinky Boots – Royal Alexandra Theatre – 260 King Street West, Toronto

Now Playing until December 20th, 2015 – Tickets

Running Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (includes intermission)

Winner of six Tony® awards including Best Musical and Best Score.

Based on the Miramax Motion Picture KINKY BOOTS written by Geoff Deane & Tim Firth.

Book by Harvey Fierstein
Music and Lyrics by Cyndi Lauper
Directed & Choreographed by Jerry Mitchell

 

 

 

 

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment, and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors, and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats. Reach out - bryen@thebuzzmag.ca