The Carlton Operatic Society’s production of Kinky Boots was superb, and one of the most heartwarming and energetic performances I have seen. Based on the original broadway production, the society brought the story of Charlie Price's life and how he faces bankruptcy after inheriting the family shoe factory.
That is until the fabulous Lola appears and together they create sturdy stilettos and save the business. The musical had a cast of more than 30, with ages ranging from as young as 8 to over 50, and every single person did an outstanding job.
The entire cast appeared to be having the times of their lives, and some of their voices were just incredible. Mark Coffey-Bainbridge and Steffi Moor did a fantastic job as Charlie Price and Lola/Simon, and were the perfect pair to lead the show.
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Mark did a great job showing Charlie's journey, as he went from not knowing what he wanted to do to finding the passion he had been searching for, and Steffi did a superb job taking on the sassy role of Lola, showing how she had her own struggles to face. They each perfectly portrayed their characters, had wonderful voices, and I just couldn’t believe some of the notes they reached.
The music was being played by an outstanding live orchestra and the instruments being played live really added to the atmosphere. Cathy Hyde, Lizzie Fenner and Cliff Hart also gave brilliant performances of Lauren, Nicola and Don, they really embodied their characters and Lauren’s performance of ‘Wrong Guys’ was fantastic and had the audience in stitches as the loved-up worker chased after Charlie.
The whole production was wonderfully directed, the choreography was on point and the costumes were just stunning. One of the top highlights of the performance was the set, which was well designed and versatile, transforming throughout the show and keeping the story moving.
The stained glass windows in the factory also added to the atmosphere, and I love how the cast could quickly move outside and inside thanks to the sliding exterior walls. The audience was cheering throughout the show, and there were many moments people wanted to laugh or cry with those on stage.
The night ended with the entire cast wearing the iconic kinky boots and strutting their stuff, whilst members of the audience were up dancing and giving standing ovations.
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