Review: KINKY BOOTS at the Eccles is Bold and Heartfelt
The new Eccles Theater is currently serving as the temporary home for the national tour of KINKY BOOTS--a heartfelt exploration of family and friendship.
KINKY BOOTS (book by Harvey Fierstein, music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper), based on the film of the same name, was the winner of six Tony Awards in 2013, including Best Musical and Best Score. Its main protagonist is Charlie Price, who recently inherited his father's failing shoe factory. After meeting drag queen Lola, he realizes he has stumbled upon an underserved market and enlists her help to design stiletto-heeled boots that will withstand the weight of a grown man. Charlie and Lola put everything on the line in the hopes that their idea will save the factory and the livelihoods of its workers.
Curt Hansen is magnetic as Charlie. With a captivating stage presence, unique singing voice, and earnest sincerity, he easily carries the show.
The expressive J. Harrison Ghee effortlessly matches him as Lola, with breezy humor, big personality, and powerful vocals.
The supporting characters pull their own weight as accomplished actors and singers who have nailed the specificity of their characters. Especially enjoyable in their roles are Rose Hemingway as Lauren, Katerina Papacostas as Nicola, Aaron Walpole as Don, and Dan Tracy as Harry.
The scenic design by David Rockwell and lighting design by Kenneth Posner do not needlessly overwhelm, but instead evoke setting and draw focus.
The costume design by Gregg Barnes, hair design by Josh Marquette, and makeup design by Randy Houston Mercer achieve an effectively simple, contemporary look for the most part, but they requisitely shimmer and shout when Lola and her entourage enter the room.
With a Tony-winning pop score, performances bolstered by emotional strength and bravery, and design that is both subtle and bold, this is an unusual show that really works.
KINKY BOOTS plays the Eccles Theater for a limited engagement through Sunday, January 22, 2017. For tickets, call ArtTix at 801-355-ARTS (2787) or visit www.artsaltlake.org.
Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy/Evenko
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