Review: Kinky Boots
Kinky Boots surprises typical audiences Helsinki
City Theatre’s new musical communicates an important message through the means of drag art.
The Finnish audience giving a standing ovation – rarely happens and tells us that something really significant has just been proven.
I got to experience such a moment at the performance of the musical Kinky Boots at the Helsinki City Theatre. The musical, composed by Cyndi Lauper , has premiered all over the world, both on Broadway and on the stages of the West End – and now in Helsinki. The show is called the biggest musical of the decade.
Kinky Boots is a pioneer: it combines the art of drag with musicals. Drag is often perceived as an art form for sexual and gender minorities in dimly lit pubs. Kinky Boots changes this image: it makes drag visible to all people and offers a safe interface to an art form that is perceived as foreign.
Of course, Ru Paul’s Drag Race, for example, is a hugely popular reality show among young people, but for the average theater audience, Kinky Boots is possibly the first opportunity to see a real drag artist perform – albeit as part of a musical performance.
The musical tells the story of a shoe factory on the verge of bankruptcy. Charlie (Petrus Kähkönen), who inherited a shoe factory from his father, wants to save the factory, but can’t seem to figure out how.
By chance, Charlie bumps into Lola (Lauri Mikkola), a drag artist whose performance high heels are constantly torn apart. Charlie realizes that by helping Lola, he could save the factory workers from being laid off.
The story of an unexpected friendship begins. The road is not necessarily smooth and uncomplicated, but it is all the more educational. The musical is a great lesson that by selflessly accepting both others and yourself, the road to success opens up.
In addition to the more skilled performers, the stage has a really impressive set. During the performance, the large stage of the Helsinki City Theatre transforms from a shoe factory into a dazzling drag club and Milan Fashion Week. Kinky Boots makes the set design part of the performance: the conveyor belt of a shoe factory is used for spectacular choreographies, and the two-storey set is used to convincingly create different environments.
What definitely makes the musical credible is Lola, played by Mikkola, who is anything but just a man in a dress. It’s really hard to believe that Mikkola hasn’t performed as a drag artist before his role; That’s how skilled he is. Diva and challenging vogue choreographies are perfectly mastered. The character fills the stage every time he arrives there – even the biggest applause is heard after his solos.
The sympathetic Lauren (Anna Victoria Eriksson) also makes the audience glow with joy with her solo. Eriksson really seems to be the embodiment of his character. Even though she has a clear supporting role in the musical, she takes control of her moments and is sure to be remembered by everyone.
This is a story that Finns must see and experience. Such a captivating story about diversity and equality that jamming while the last song is playing is necessary.
Kinky Boots is a heartfelt story starring absolutely brilliant performers. The choreographies and vocal parts are finished to the end, and Lola’s gorgeous drag angels make even middle-aged people whistle.