Strap on a pair of stunning heels and prepare to be dazzled as “Kinky Boots” sweeps into town.
With unforgettable music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper and a script written by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein, “Kinky Boots” brings glitz and glamour to the stage of the Tennessee Performing Arts Center in Nashville for one week, between Feb. 3 and Feb. 8.
“Kinky Boots” tells the heart-warming story of the unlikely partnership between Charlie, the new owner of a struggling shoe factory, Lola, a fabulous entertainer and popular drag queen in desperate need of sturdier shoes.
Together the pair learn how to accomplish their dreams together and that the first step in changing the world is accepting people just as they are.
Broadway’s newest musical sensation inspires inclusion, ambition and perseverance in a world riddled with negativity and opposition.
“Kinky Boots” is based on a 2005 film of the same name, which was originally inspired by the true story of a struggling British shoe factory.
Despite receiving less-than-favorable reviews initially, the incredible production won six Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Score by Lauper.
The musical has experienced a number of sold-out shows across the United States during its year of touring, including a surprisingly sold-out performance on Christmas Eve in San Francisco.
Actor Joe Coots said no one expected it to be so packed on Christmas Eve but promises a fun night out at the theater.
“It’s the hottest show on Broadway coming to Nashville. People would be fools to not come,” he said.
Coots described his character Don as the arch-nemesis to both of the lead characters.
“Don’s family has worked at the shoe factory for three generations and I don’t, well, my character doesn’t like anything that’s different,” said Coots. “When Lola comes in and changes things and we start making women’s shoes that are built for men, I just don’t like it.”
Coots’ character violently opposes the new changes that Charlie and Lola make, going so far as to challenge Lola to a fight. Lola endures Don’s criticisms and mockery and accepts his challenge in an attempt to teach him a lesson.
The dynamic relationship between Don, Lola and Charlie inspires a message about acceptance.
“The message of this story is inclusion; accepting people for who they are, realize that everyone is different and keep accepting them anyway,” said Coots.
The heart-warming wonder of “Kinky Boots” can be seen at TPAC every night from Feb. 3 to Feb. 8. Shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday night and at 8 p.m. on Friday night.
There will also be two shows both Saturday and Sunday. Performances will begin at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday and at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Tickets for the performances can be purchased at TPAC’s website, www.tpac.org, and Belmont students can receive a special discount by using promo code “BELMONT” when purchasing tickets.
Photo courtesy: Kinky Boots Broadway Touring Company