Kinky Boots, Stockton Globe Review
Johhannes Radebe in Kinky Boots UK Tour. Photo by Pamela Raith
Written by Stacy for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
From the electrifying first beat of the overture to the glitter-soaked final strut, the 2025 UK Tour of Kinky Boots proves itself a dazzling celebration of identity, acceptance, and sheer theatrical joy. Currently stopping at the iconic Stockton Globe, this high-octane production reaffirms why Kinky Boots continues to win hearts across the globe. Under the vibrant direction of Nikolai Foster and with dynamic choreography by Leah Hill, the show strikes a perfect balance between West End sophistication and tour-ready vitality. It’s a heartfelt, high-heeled triumph—uplifting, unapologetic, and, of course, fabulously kinky.
Drawing stylish inspiration from the semi-true story behind the 2005 film, Kinky Boots hits the stage with a book by Broadway legend Harvey Fierstein and an irresistibly catchy score by pop icon Cyndi Lauper. The story centres on mild-mannered Charlie Price, who unexpectedly inherits his late father’s failing Northampton shoe factory. With the business on the brink, salvation arrives in the form of Lola—a fabulously fearless drag queen with sky-high heels and an even higher sense of style. Together, they hatch a daring plan to save the factory by designing sturdy, glamorous footwear for the drag world. What follows is a joyful journey of reinvention, unlikely friendship, and unapologetic self-expression. At its glittering core, Kinky Boots is a high-heeled hymn to acceptance, proving that the best way to fit in is to stand out.
Johannes Radebe is nothing short of magnetic as Lola. From his very first entrance, he commands the stage with an effortless charisma that makes it impossible to look anywhere else. Every glance, gesture, and high-kick is delivered with purpose and flair, balancing fierce confidence with moments of poignant vulnerability. Whether delivering a showstopping number or quietly baring Lola’s emotional truth, Radebe captivates with a presence so powerful it feels like the spotlight follows him by instinct alone. His performance isn’t just outstanding—it’s unforgettable.
Dan Partridge’s portrayal of Charlie is a masterclass in restraint. While Lola dazzles with fireworks, Partridge anchors the performance with a grounded, relatable presence, expertly charting Charlie’s evolution with nuance and precision. His standout moment, “Soul of a Man,” lands powerfully—a soul-searching ballad delivered with remarkable vocal control and just the right touch of raw emotion, leaving a lasting impact. With every note, he conveys a quiet intensity that lingers long after the final chord fades. The chemistry between Partridge and Radebe is the production’s emotional engine, evolving from reluctant partnership to mutual respect with touching sincerity.
Courtney Bowman lights up the stage as Lauren, delivering pitch-perfect comedy and endearing charm. Her rendition of “The History of Wrong Guys” is a riot, full of brilliant physicality and impeccable timing—she’s a scene-stealer in every sense. Meanwhile, Scott Paige is a quiet triumph as George, anchoring the mayhem with impeccable comic timing and a gently understated warmth that brings hilarity to the role. His presence may be subtle, but his impact is undeniable. Kara Lily Hayworth lends polish to the underwritten role of Nicola, while Joe Caffrey gives real heart to Don’s transformation. And of course, Lola’s Angels bring unrelenting sparkle and sass—their moves razor-sharp, their wigs worthy of their own curtain call, and their presence injecting every number with irresistible energy and flair.
Director Nikolai Foster masterfully balances pace and emotion, ensuring the energy never wanes while maintaining the show’s heart. His direction brings a fluidity to the transitions, effortlessly shifting between the gritty, grounded realism of the factory floor and the dazzling, larger-than-life world of Lola. The contrasting environments are visually striking: the industrial rawness of the factory feels lived-in and authentic, while Lola’s world is bathed in neon glow and glamorous excess. Foster’s keen eye for movement and atmosphere ensures that each scene flows naturally, heightening the emotional stakes without sacrificing the exuberant fun at the show’s core.
The choreography is nothing short of electrifying—a true showstopper that lifts the entire production to dazzling new heights. Leah Hill’s work is a masterclass in movement, fusing technical precision with raw energy to create routines that demand attention and never let go. Every high-heeled strut and sharp, coordinated movement showcases the performers’ talent and injects each scene with a surge of energy and joy. The choreography doesn’t just entertain; it transforms the show, turning moments of tension into celebrations of self-expression and unity. The audience is swept up in the rhythm, the beats pulsing through the room as the factory workers and Angels alike groove, kick, and twirl their way into our hearts. It’s a reminder of how choreography, when done right, can not only enhance a story—it can make you feel every bit of it, from your head to your toes.
The Stockton Globe’s majestic interior sets the stage beautifully for Kinky Boots, its grandeur perfectly complementing the musical’s dazzling, larger-than-life aesthetic. The touring set design is a triumph, fluidly shifting from the gritty realism of the factory floor to the shimmering allure of Lola’s cabaret world, all enhanced by inventive lighting and dynamic set pieces. The costumes are truly top-tier, with each piece more spectacular than the last. Lola’s outfits are the standouts, with each ensemble more audacious and glamorously bold than the one before. Sequins, leather and extravagant details define her looks, making every entrance a show in itself. The factory workers’ attire, while more grounded, still carries a sense of character and flair, with each piece adding depth to the narrative and enhancing the vibrant atmosphere of the production. On press night, the sound design was well-balanced, allowing Cyndi Lauper’s infectious score to take centre stage. From the cheeky exuberance of “Sex is in the Heel” to the soaring anthem of “Raise You Up/Just Be,” every song was delivered with a blend of energy and precision, filling the theatre with a palpable sense of joy and celebration.
Kinky Boots is like a hug wrapped in six-inch stilettos and sequinned sass. It’s the kind of show that tugs at your heartstrings with one hand while pulling you onto a glitter-filled catwalk with the other. Part musical therapy, part drag extravaganza, it’s an electrifying celebration of finding your community, saving your business, and discovering that the secret to strutting through life lies in confidence and compassion. In an age where kindness can often feel in short supply, this show’s message feels more relevant than ever. With its unapologetic energy and endless joy, Kinky Boots is loud, proud, and will leave you walking out of the theatre with a little more pep in your step—and a lot more sparkle in your soul.
Go for the boots. Stay for the soul.
★★★★★
