By Jessica Kennedy.
Attention ladies, gentlemen, and those who have yet to make up their minds! Kinky Boots premiered at Patchogue Theater this past weekend; presented by Gateway Theater and directed by Larry Raben, this cult classic is a must see for the season!
Based on the Miramax motion picture by the same name written by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth, this story is actually based on real life events. The 2005 British film was adapted for Broadway in 2013- the play received 13 nominations and 6 Tony wins, including Best Score and Best Musical. It follows the story of Charlie Price (Lukas Poost) who attempts to escape his destiny as a 4th generation shoemaker, only find himself responsible for his father’s factory- and its employees- when his father passes away unexpectedly. The business is close to bankruptcy and Charlie would rather run off to London with his beautiful fiancee Nicola (Erika Peterson), but he finds himself unable to simply give the business up. An unlikely encounter with a captivating drag queen by the name of Lola (Terry Lavell) begins a glimmer- and glamorous- ray of hope that just may save his father’s legacy. This play is full of electric and energy, but at its core it celebrates the transcendent beauty of finding one’s true passion and moving beyond the bonds of oppression, prejudice, and expectation.
From boasting the original Broadway sets and costumes, to some amazing vocalists and dancers who bring Cyndi Lauper’s scintillating music and lyrics to life, Gateway’s production of Kinky Boots has plenty to praise! Charlie (Poost) and Lola (Lavell) have great chemistry, and they make the scenes between them feel dynamic and sincere. Lavell’s portrayal of both Lola and Simon feels seamless, while at the same time he manages to capture the difficulty the character faces at times when straddling two worlds and navigating people’s prejudice and rejection. Lavell’s performance is complimented exquisitely by his mesmerizing Angels- I found myself eagerly anticipating their entrance and in awe of both their dancing (credit to Choreographer Peggy Hickey and Dance Captain Louis Willims Jr.) and their tantalizing appearance. They invite the audience to “let their eyes explore” in “The Land of Lola,” and their magnetic presence always commands attention. Their colorful and vibrant representation of drag queens is laudable, and serves to illuminate this play’s message of universal acceptance as seen in the show’s climactic catwalk finale and rendition of “Raise You Up/Just Be.” Supporting characters are both hysterical and endearing- Claire Adams is perfection as the awkward and heartsick Lauren, Sam Zeller makes Don’s bold change of heart feel both profound and genuine, and Tom Souhrada as the prim and proper George shocks you with his final footwear reveal! So whether your footwear is classic or kinky, come and enjoy this exhilarating show and its gifted cast!