If the
name didn’t give it away, this is not your average Beef & Boards
production. The Broadway hit roars onto the stage with drag queens in stiletto
heels and a whole lot of sass. Based on a true story, the musical’s message of
accepting people for who they are is more timely than ever.
Jacob Butler plays Charlie, the owner of a shoe factory that’s struggling to make ends meet. He’s a traditional fellow who is not quite ready to have his views or opinions shaken by the unconventional and fierce Lola. The show comes alive when Jonathan Studdard makes his first appearance as that fiery character. Studdard can strut with the best of them, but it’s during the number “I’m Not My Father’s Son” that the audience is treated to the true depth of his talent. The beautiful quiet song was my favorite in the show.
At one
point, Charlie says of Lola, “Whenever you leave a room there’s a great big
gaping gap.” The same is true of Kinky Boots. The production hums with life
during Studdard’s scenes but struggles a bit without him. The other players
never slack in their roles, but it’s Lola who is meant to light the audience on
fire and Studdard doesn’t disappoint.
Michael Layton’s set design uses scaffolding and projections to switch from the factory floor to Lola’s cabaret-style club numbers. Feathers, sequins, and, of course, piles of bright red boots kept costume designer Amy Gaton busy. The overall effect is fun and entertaining. Note that the show is rated PG-13 for adult themes, so wait and bring the kids to Mary Poppins later this season.
Don't
Miss the Show
Up next at Beef & Boards is Hello Dolly, opening
March 31.
Performances: Kinky Boots runs until March 27.
Tickets: To purchase tickets call (317) 872-9664 between 10 a.m.
and 7 p.m. Prices range from $51 to $76 and include the show, tax, coffee, tea,
and the buffet.
Photos courtesy of Beef & Boards
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