“Kinky Boots”

***  The Highland Park Players theater company  Has been doing productions since 1988 ( I think the Haimes family was involved back at the start)- a long time for what might be called a “community theater”. Over the years, I have watched this company grow and evolve. Watching some of their shows is truly a good feeling night as they do excellent work. The players are not, for the most part, people who do this for a living, but in fact, people who do this for their love of theater. In the past, after giving up acting as a profession, I opted to do this as well. I loved doing it and when you do, the audience appreciates what you bring to the stage.

They are currently doing the Tony Award-winning musical “Kinky Boots.” This exhilarating show, filled with toe-tapping music and a heartwarming story, is being presented in the brand new McGrath Family Performing Arts Center, 1100 Laramie Ave, Wilmette, IL.  Performances are August 18, 19, 25, 26 at 7:30 pm and August 20, 26, 27 at 2:00 pm.  Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at       www.highlandparkplayers.com.

Inspired by true events, “Kinky Boots” tells the extraordinary tale of Charlie Price (Ben Frankart , who has a marvelous vocal range), a struggling shoe factory owner, and Lola (deftly handled by Anania Williams who truly held their own from start to finish), a fabulous performer and drag queen. Their unexpected partnership takes them on a transformative journey of acceptance, self-discovery, and the power of embracing individuality. These roles are also played by David Aul ( young Charlie) and the adorable Campbell Hinsley ( young Lola) in the opening number which tells the story of their growing up.

With an infectious score by the legendary Cyndi Lauper and a book by Harvey Fierstein, “Kinky Boots” has taken the theater world by storm since its Broadway debut. It has earned numerous accolades, including six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Original Score, and Best Choreography. Audiences around the globe have been moved by its universal themes of tolerance, love, and the triumph of embracing one’s authentic self.

Despite a few tech problems ( after all this is a new facility) production that will dazzle theatergoers and leave them uplifted. The talented cast, composed of both seasoned performers and rising stars, brings their passion and energy to the stage, breathing life into the vibrant characters and bringing the story to life.

With the exception of a few tech mishaps ( after all, this is a new facility) the production is well done. Sharpley directed by Connor Giles and some unique choreography (Jenna Schoppe) make the production a little different from previous production. As I always say, each time you see a play, it will differ from the previous time. The eyes of each director and choreographer see the script differently. A different venue dictates change and the talent of your cast can make all the difference in the world.

This ensemble shines.Mikey Barrker, Ariana Cappuccitti, Sydney Cowie, Elizabeth Dempsey, Emily Durham, Rob Fenton, Sydney Hendrix, Ray Minda and Parker Stancato were terrific.

The angels ( all males in drag) Will Ehrlich, Jonathan Gembarski, Corey Mills, Ogunde Tremayne ( wuite the agile performer) and Carter Wright will keep you guessing. The othe rplayersJill Iverson, Hannah Kipp Josh Hoffman ( a terrific Don)Dominique Ruffalo, Hannah Rose and Peter Rasey round out a solid cast. There is a message in this play “Accept Someone for who they are”- I ask that audience members when viewing a play, look past what they players look like, and watch how they develop their characters and the story that is being told- that is true theater.

The production team includes T.J. Anderson (Music Director), Martha Shuford (Costume Designer), Raymond Mindas (Costume Designer), Alec Kinastowski (Lighting Designer), Lauren Nichols (Set Designer), Holly Weis (Marketing),  Scott Spector (Stage Manager/Light Board Operator), Manny Ortiz (Set Builder), Roberto Puig (Wig Design), Leslie Hull (Dialect Coach), Abbie Reid (Associate Set Designer), Matt Leske (Sound Design/Operation), Carol Lee Wax (Props), Naomi Hershman (Props), Sydney Genco (Makeup Design), Monique Collins (Sponsorships and Advertising), Edie Schwartz (Assistant Stage Manager), Emily Horvath (Set Painter), Alex Arey (Crew) and Macie Weinberger (Crew). 

The Highland Park Players say  “This show is a celebration of diversity, acceptance, and the power of embracing one’s true identity. Audiences can expect a high-energy production that will leave them inspired and entertained.”

Tickets for “Kinky Boots” are on sale now!  Seating is reserved and prices start at $30 per ticket.  To purchase tickets and learn more about the show please visit www.highlandparkplayers.com.  Special discounts available for groups 15+, email HPPKinkyBoots@gmail.com or call ‭1 (224) 212-0477 to plan your event!  

Performance schedule is as follows:

August 19th  7:30 p.m’

August 20th  2:00 p.m.

August 25th 7:30 p.m.

August 26th   2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

August 27th  2:00 p.m.

Run time 2 hours 24 minutes with one 15 minute intermission

Come early and walk around this beautiful, comfortable theater- plenty of free parking

Visit Highland Park Players online at www.highlandparkplayers.com, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up and click at “Kinky Boots”