Kinky Boots is a colorful Broadway musical about a young man named Charlie (Stark Stands) who takes over his deceased father’s struggling shoe factory.
Just when Charlie gives up and decides to close the factory, he meets Lola (Billy Porter), a theatrical drag queen and the savvy two come up with the idea of making heels that support drag queens.
It is directed by Jerry Mitchell and written by Harvey Fierstein with music written by none other than grammy-award winning artist, Cyndi Lauper. It is no surprise that Lauper, with her 1979 hit about girls just wanting to have fun, leaves audiences around New York City speechless with her captivating songs. All of them are so are so uplifting, especially “Sex in in the Heel” which will have you tapping your foot and grooving to the music. You’ll find yourself wanting to be a drag queen. Not surprisingly enough, the lead singer of this uplifting songs is none other than Billy Porter, who stars as Lola.
Lola’s character relates to the audience. She fights to be accepted in a society where if you stand out, you do it alone and ridiculed. Everytime Porter enters the room, he is followed by a witty comeback or an impressive dance move. And always six paces behind is his endearing troupe of drag queens who move with impossible grace and ease while wearing six-hundred inch heel boots.
As for the costumes of the drag queens, especially Lola, their designs are intricate and colorful. You’ll find yourself sitting at the edge of your seat in anticipation of Lola’s next outfit. Gregg Barnes, the costume designer really captures Lola’s bold attitude and individuality with the vivid colors he has her wear.
One thing that was surprising was the emotions that the musical brought out of the audience. With such a simple plot, the exciting music and characters make the musical. Kinky Boots takes a bold step into the future of Broadway with its untraditional black, male crossdressing lead.
Comments
Leave A Comment