Kinky Boots is a show by Jerry Mitchell and Brett Sullivan about the shoe factory owner and a drag queen, who joins him and helps to save his business. Noteworthy is the fact that the Broadway show is based on real events. Despite the bright colors and songs in very unexpected moments, Kinky Boots makes us think about the importance of self-acceptance.
The show tells the story of Charlie, the owner of a shoe factory who is trying to save the business of his father, and Lola, drag queen, an incredible and explosive character (S47 E10: Kinky Boots | Great Performances, 2019). At first glance, these people have nothing in common; however, the couple learns to perceive themselves and creates unique high-heeled boots. Although the show is family-friendly, I believe that children may not understand some ideas.
The show begins with Charlie’s childhood when his father shows Charlie the shoe factory as his future. Having matured, Charlie moves to London, but almost immediately receives the news of his father’s death. Later, Charlie meets Lola and pays attention to her expensive, but poor-quality shoes. Things are going bad at the factory, and Charlie gives his employees notices. Lauren, his employee, suggests finding a new niche in the shoe market. Inspired by the idea, Charlie creates the first boot for Lola, but she does not like it, she insists that buyers need sex and creates new shoe designs. In Milan, Lola rescues Charlie and the presentation by participating with her dancers in the show. Lauren and Charlie kiss, Charlie changes the name of his factory, and the team celebrates success.
To create a bright and warm atmosphere, as well as to convey the mood of the characters, the director actively uses light and costumes. For example, the light goes out after the death of Charlie’s father, personifying Charlie’s sadness and depression. Lola, a bright person, dances in a club in a red dress against a background of red lighting. Through light and costumes, the director shows the character’s nature and emotions.
Kinky Boots amazed me with its dynamism, vivid images of heroes, and a sense of joy, optimism, and acceptance of others and self. The play is aimed at an adult audience because it contains concepts that may be difficult for children to understand. The show leaves a pleasant feeling of the integrity and positive emotions because of the quality work with lighting and costumes.
Reference
S47 E10: Kinky Boots | Great Performances. (2019). [Video]. PBS SoCal. Web.