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Theatre Review: Kinky Boots - King's Theatre, Glasgow ✭✭✭✭

The 2016 Olivier award-winning show, Kinky Boots, strutted into Glasgow this week as part of its UK tour, after a successful run in both London’s West End and Broadway. Set in Northampton and based on a true story, the curtain lifts on a busy day at Price and Sons - a reputable shoe factory specialising in sensible footwear that will last a lifetime. At the head of the company is Mr Price, an old-world gent who would rather make stock he doesn't need than leave his staff without wages. As tragedy strikes, Mr Price's son Charlie takes over the factory and quickly realises that business isn’t exactly booming. On the hunt for a niche product to impress the buyers, he has a chance encounter with a drag queen named Lola, and in so doing may just find the gap in the shoe market that could save his family's legacy – women’s shoes made for men.

Kayi Ushe is genius as the confident and sassy Lola, with the vocal range to take on any diva and the personality to match. Ushe tells of Lola’s heartbreaking road to acceptance, drawing on every emotion you can think of. Dry eyes were few and far between, particularly during the pensive ballad ‘Not My Father's Son’.

Everyone knows someone like Charlie Price. Charlie is a people pleaser, indecisive for the most part and eagerly trying to gain the same respect from his employees that his late father had. Joel Harper-Jackson plays Charlie with charm and determination, encouraging the audience to root for his success. Lola’s budding friendship with Charlie is a real treat to behold - two people who on the outside could not be more different, develop a strong bond and understanding for each other, although there is no doubt who wears the metaphorical trousers.

Havey Fierstein's book and Cyndi Lauper's catchy score work great together while costume designer Gregg Barnes brings the stage to life with colours, textures and most importantly, style. Kinky Boots tells an important story, with humour and heart. Focusing on current day themes of acceptance and the beauty of being yourself, it's a life-affirming watch for sure.

Kinky Boots is at the King's Theatre Glasgow until Saturday 18th May. For tickets visit ATG Tickets.

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