Kinky Boots is about to stride into town.
The multi-award-winning musical is to have its Scottish premier at the Playhouse over the Christmas season.
Based on the 2005 British film, it is inspired by the true-life events of a failing Northamptonshire shoe factory which for over a century has been making a range of shoes for men. In this century they will make a variety of footwear for a range of men.
When Charlie inherits the family business, he struggles to live up to his father’s expectations, but salvation may be in the form of Lola, a cabaret performer in need of some sturdy stilettos.
The Edinburgh production, which expects to draw an audience of 50,000 from all over the country, had a recent launch at Brewhemia. Radio Forth’s Arlene Stuart (resplendent in tall red boots) hosted the event and described the show as being about family, embracing difference and as guaranteeing a huge smile.
The show has solid credentials, with book by Harvey Fierstein (La Cage aux Folles), music by Cyndi Lauper and direction & choreography by Jerry Mitchell (Legally Blonde, Hairspray). The preview featured numbers by Callum Francis, Connor Collins and Jason Winter (pictured). Francis understudied Lola in London in 2015 and went on to play the lead for nearly two years in Australia.
The show, which has highs, lows and get up and dance numbers, is said to have always produced a standing ovation. The Edinburgh party season may have people up on their feet.
Show Times: 10 December 2018 to 5 January 2019 (not 25th, 31st Dec and 1st Jan). Mon – Thurs & Sat at 7.30pm, Frid 5pm & 8.30pm, Sat Matinee 2.30pm.
Tickets: From £19.50
Suitability: 10+