A fun, fabulous and over-the-top celebration of individuality and acceptance.
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Kinky Boots, Theatre Royal, Plymouth, ****
Strictly star Johannes Radebe is bringing his dancing prowess and unique glamour to Devon this week as Kinky Boots struts its stuff for theatre audiences.
The musical has been given a new makeover for this 2025 tour and a major draw is undoubtedly Jojo in the key role as drag artist Lola.
The incredible dancer, who has featured on seven series of the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing show and in his own dance productions on stage, is somewhat of an unrivalled talent on the dancefloor and here appears spinning in suitably draping and extravagant outfits and shining gloriously in several segments choreographed to put his talents centre stage much to everyone's delight.
His singing was also a pleasant surprise as he held his own while radiating sophistication and style in this characterful role played with a great balance of sass and fragility.
The musical, which enjoyed successful runs on Broadway and in the West End, was conceived following the 2005 film which is based on the true story of a failing shoe factory in the north of England and how it was saved when it answered a call to serve an untapped market making ladies shoes in men's sizes for cross-dressers.
The stage production sees a drifting Charlie Price inherit the family factory and then step out on a sparkling journey of discovery thanks to an earlier meeting with the inimitable Lola when they team up to produce a range of kinky boots destined for all kinds of fashionistas.
Dan Partridge is an energetic and passionate Charlie and his duet of I'm Not My Father's Son with Johannes is one of the moments of the night.
The commanding voice, stage presence and timing of Courtney Bowman as Lauren, a factory worker who falls for Charlie, was also among my favourite bits. She is a great asset and plays the role to the crowd very well.
Lolas angels provide plenty of character and comedy. But I found in parts the levels seemed a little lacking so some lyrics were lost at times and sadly it was too easy to miss out on jokes, lyrics and lines from the ensemble. Having said that there are plenty of visual head turners with plenty going on across a set which divides the stage into sections of the factory and quickly converts to stages and catwalks.
A fun, fabulous and over-the-top celebration of individuality and acceptance.
Quick step down to enjoy Kinky Boots at Plymouth's Theatre Royal until Saturday, April 26.
