Tue 8/23-Sun 8/28
Wearing those Kinky Boots proved so much fun in 2015 that PlayhouseSquare is pulling them on again to feature the Broadway touring version at the Connor Palace. Written by Harvey Fierstein, known for wacky comedy, with music and lyrics by pop goddess Cyndi Lauper, the show sends off a hot Cleveland August on a bright and lively note.
Set in Great Britain, it’s a story of how the Price Shoe Factory turns a failing business around. It’s not that the shoes are poorly made, it’s that they are too well-made and competition from overseas factories (not in the USA) has driven down the price and cheapened the product. (Hmm. Where have we heard that story before?)
A very likeable, earnest and conflicted Charlie Price (Adam Kaplan) has to either give up or fight when he inherits the family factory. Of course, he fights, aided by a remarkable crew composed of the factory hands and a new ally, drag queen Lola (J. Harrison Ghee, who looks as beautiful in a business suit as he does in an evening gown).
Highlights include Ghee doing anything (singing, dancing, walking nimbly in thigh-high high-heeled boots), Charissa Hogeland (as Nicola) in the thankless role of Charlie’s bossy fiancee, Tiffany Engen as factory worker Lauren mugging and singing her way through the wryly funny “History of Wrong Guys,” and Patty Lohr (as Pat) and Aaron Walpole (Don) in “What a Woman Wants.” The large ensemble dances with zest and infectious joy. Really, factory workers who can move like that should head out for careers in London theaters — but who cares about realism? This is musical comedy at its giddy best).
The touring orchestra led by Ryan Fielding Garrett added zest to an already bouncy show.
This production of Kinky Boots seems fresher than ever. Perhaps the extra energy onstage comes from an infusion of cast members new to the tour — I can imagine that being on the road can get old after a while. But for whatever reason, the vibe last night was joyous.
Bottom Line: A fun time the second time around.
Kinky Boots plays here through Sun 8/28. Tickets can be purchased online at playhousesquare.org or by calling 216.241.6000.
[Review by Laura Kennelly]
Cleveland, OH 44115