REVIEW: Kinky Boots: “high-energy show delivers belly laughs, leaves audiences radiating joy”
The Saunders and Co season of Kinky Boots, a Showbiz Christchurch Production, is directed by Stephen Robertson, with musical direction by Richard Marrett, and choreography by Glen Harris, playing at the Isaac Theatre Royal.
If you're wanting to escape into a world bursting with glamour and spectacle, akin to a high production Las Vegas extravaganza (and I’ve seen a view) then Showbiz Christchurch's production of "Kinky Boots" playing at the Isaac Theatre Royal is an unmissable treat.
This high-energy show delivers belly laughs aplenty and leaves audiences radiating joy.
Showbiz Christchurch has garnered a reputation for staging performances that rival international productions and even more impressive is that the cast and crew, are largely volunteers, which in this case means the show is a passion project for many.
Character Lola, portrayed by Euan Fistrovic Doidge, is a magnetic force at the centre of the narrative.
His ability to dominate the stage, while also providing space for fellow cast members to excel, showcases a rare and commendable talent.
His voice, robust yet perfectly balanced within the superb audio mix, enhances every musical number he’s in.
If I ever met Lola on the street, I’d love to have a conversation with her about the colour red!
Cameron Douglas brings a compelling sincerity to the role of the straight-laced Charlie Price.
Despite his character's aloofness to flamboyance, Douglas renders Charlie relatable and endearing.
The portrayal of Charlie’s love interest Lauren played by Sophie Harris is particularly funny.
Her exaggerated antics, as she coyly masks her feelings, add a delightful layer of complexity to the production.
Each character resonates, with their individual dramas unfolding in engaging and relatable ways.
Even during the slower moments, the audience is gripped—a testament to the powerful silence of the theatre, when Lalo faces verbal tirade from Charlie.
Special recognition goes to Lola’s Angels, played by Jack Duff, George Hosking, Olly Humphries, Bryn Monk, Drew Noble and Jack Shatford, an exceptional ensemble of singers and dancers whose flawless performances never skipped a beat.
From the impeccable sound mixing and live orchestration to the elaborate sets and dazzling lighting, every element of this production is executed with finesse.
I had the pleasure of interviewing audience members as they left the theatre, asking for their thoughts on the show.
Regardless of age, the response was unanimous: the show is wonderful. It's a must-see musical, even for those who usually shy away from theatre.
"Kinky Boots" by Showbiz Christchurch is not merely a musical; it is an experience that will be etched in the memories of Christchurch audience for years to come.
★★★★★
Fri 19 April - Sat 4 May 2024, Isaac Theatre Royal BOOK TICKETS HERE:
Kinky Boots
Lola / Simon - Euan Fistrovic Doidge
Lola/Simon Understudy - Jack Lawton
Charlie Price - Cameron Douglas
Nicola - Alyssa Parkinson
Lauren - Sophie Harris
Trish Sarah Kelly
George - Chris Goodyear
Pat - Katie Beer
Don - Oscar Days
Mr Price Matt Hudson
Simon's Dad - Jack Lawton
Harry - Jordi Rea
Young Charlie - Mac Simpson, Frankie Domigan
Young Simon - Zahara Cording, Akwasi Ohene-Gyan Akoto
Angels - Jack Duff, George Hosking, Olly Humphries, Bryn Monk, Drew Noble, Jack Shatford Angel Cover - Liam Collins
Ensemble - Katie Beer, Rebecca Boyce, Nic Catto, Eli Davis, Oscar Days, Sophie Gilmore, Jane Godfrey, Chris Goodyear, Matt Hudson, Sarah Kelly, Matt McMenamin, Heather McFarlane, Cameron Melville, Jordie Rea, James Shera, Leon Van't Veen, Patrick Ward
