A review of Musical Theatre Salisbury's 'Kinky Boots'

I've been lucky to see several MTS productions over the years, and often wonder whether the next will be as good as the last - particularly after last year's success with Legally Blonde.

Kinky Boots was certainly no exception and I find it hard to understand how it can be described as an "amateur" group, their level of professionalism and talent of actors and creatives alike is inspiring.

The show, directed by Barry Mcllroy and Ellen Smith, follows Charlie Price (Josh Bradley) who reluctantly inherits his father's shoe shop. In his feat to save the business, which is almost at bankruptcy, he meets Lola (Dave Simmons), an entertainer in need of some specialist stilettos.

READ MORE: Everyman cinema celebrates 'successful' first year in Salisbury

It is hard to believe that playing “Lola” was Dave Simmons' first time performing as a drag queen - from his entrance in the number "Land of Lola" it was clear he had nailed the role of the feisty, glamourous and fabulous entertainer alongside his six "Angels" (Katie Hankins, Jonathan Hayden, Anwen Howells, Hannah Lockwood, Isla Rose Moir, Emily Wilton).

The stage before the show began (Image: Musical Theatre Salisbury)

Josh Bradley played a suitably raw and slightly confused Charlie Price - a talented singer, but also a truly believable actor in carrying the iconic story from one scene to the next through his character's number of emotions.

The storyline was easy to follow, and engaging throughout. It was lively, alluring and uplifting, and complimented by some excellent musical numbers - skilfully created by Cyndi Lauper and directed by Liz Weager.

A personal favourite of mine was "The History of Wrong Guys" which was beautifully performed by Arabella Dougherty who played Lauren. Arabella performed a ditsy, yet bright and wacky factory worker who quickly became one of the leading stars of the show.

Rehearsals of Kinky Boots (Image: MTS)

The final two numbers, Raise You Up and Just Be, lived up to their song titles, and brought together some of the key themes of the show - open mindedness, collaboration and self-discovery.

With a group of wonderful actors comes a fantastic production team, and credit must be given to Lucy Duffy (choreographer), Sarah Bath (lighting) and of course Debbie Wadge (costume).

If you find yourself needing to add some sparkle and "Raise You Up" on these warm summer evenings, I would urge you to indulge in a dazzling performance Kinky Boots at the Salisbury Playhouse, which ends it's short run on Saturday, June 29.

Tickets can be purchased here.