Kinky Boots - The Musical

Strictly Come Dancing star Johannes Radebe shines in this new production of Kinky Boots at the Palace Theatre in Manchester on Tuesday night. 

Strictly Come Dancing star Johannes Radebe shines in this new production of Kinky Boots at the Palace Theatre in Manchester on Tuesday night. 

With stunning performances, catchy music, and a strong message of self-acceptance, the 2025 revival of Kinky Boots is a captivating and endearing musical that struts its way into audiences' hearts. This production, which is based on the 2005 movie and has a Tony Award-winning Cyndi Lauper score, is a theatrical display of colour, vibrancy and flair. 

As I am not a Strictly superfan myself, I was initially unaware of Radebe’s sheer star power. However, I was quickly reminded of my ignorance when he received a standing ovation for first entering stage. His ballroom dancing expertise seamlessly translates into a fun, energetic, and charismatic performance as Simon/Lola. He never misses a note, skips a beat or puts a foot wrong. Beyond that, he still manages to portray an incredibly human performance of a drag-queen struggling to navigate a world that doesn’t accept him for who he is. 

As impressive as Radebe’s performance was, credit must be given to Lola’s angels-a chorus of drag queens who act as both extensions of the leading figure and scene-stealers in their own right. They deliver hilarious moments throughout while also giving the show that imperative camp, glamour and fierceness that encapsulates its story. At times they seamlessly blend into the scene, offering the perfect backdrop for Lola to shine with their matching outfits, yet when it is their turn to belt out a falsetto they don’t hold back.  

The narrative centres on Charlie Price, a man who spends his whole life trying to avoid the family shoe business. However, after his father's untimely death, he inherits the financially faltering factory and, in a last-ditch effort to turn things around, strikes up an unlikely alliance with the amazing drag queen Lola. What follows is a glorious journey of friendship, self-discovery, and the understanding that we are strongest when we embrace who we really are. 

One of the show’s greatest strengths is its music. Lauper's score creates a powerful blend of pop, rock, and show tunes. This is complimented by the exceptional vocal talents of the cast, in particular leading man Dan Partridge who plays Charlie Price. While Radebe’s dancing ability is known to fans of Strictly Come Dancing, many may be surprised by his vocal prowess- highlighting his versatility as an actor. 

Sharing the stage with Radebe could be seen as a herculean task, yet Partridge doesn’t shy away from the spotlight, delivering a stellar performance that grounds the show with a human narrative amidst the glitz and glamour of Lola and her angels. He seamlessly captures Charlie’s journey from a heroic saviour to a controlling perfectionist and, ultimately, to redemption, with grace, humour, and confidence.  

However, what impressed me most about the show was not Radebe’s or Partridge’s performance alone, but their chemistry together on stage. They invoke all the ups and downs of a platonic friendship and a dependant business partnership- navigating tension, humour and heartfelt moments with ease and style. Partridge and Radebe complement each other well, and their dynamic culminates in a brilliant final number that sees them, along with the rest of the ensemble, share the stage for their climactic double bout of ‘Raise You Up’ and ‘Just Be.’ 

Lauper’s music is the heartbeat of the show, tying together its themes of diversity, acceptance, and self-empowerment. To top off a spectacular opening night, Radebe closed out the show by bringing out the one and only Cyndi Lauper herself, who took to the stage to thank the cast and the audience for a phenomenal evening of entertainment. 

Kinky Boots is a celebration of diversity, understanding and pride that gives us catchy songs and standout performances. It is something I urge everyone to go and see. 

Kinky Boots can be seen at the Palace Theatre in Manchester until Saturday, February 8.