Review: KINKY BOOTS at London Coliseum

Starring as Lola is Johannes Radabe who I am reliably informed is something big on Strictly Come Dancing with your Big Brother on Ice in the Jungle - about which I know very little as in general, I avoid such programmes like the plague (while accepting that they are as catnip to the overwhelming majority of regular TV watchers). Joining Radabe is Matt Cardle who I am reliably informed won one of those Britain's Got a Talented Pop idol Star with an X-Factor Voice programmes - about which I know equally little, largely due to them making my brain go slightly numb. In any event, when I saw the show, Mr Cardle was off and the part of Charlie Price was played by an engaging lad called Liam Doyle.

Charlie has no particular interest in footwear despite his family owning one of Northampton's oldest shoe factories. When Dad dies and Charlie grows tired of his girlfriend's incessant desire to live the shopaholic life-style in London, he decides to take a greater interest in the business and the people who have loyally kept it ticking over despite financial difficulties. A chance encounter with a drag queen proves the unlikely catalyst for a change from the current staid product to a more niche footwear brand which may prove the company's financial saviour – if only they can all pull together and organise the logistics and funding to ensure attendance at the International Footwear Show in Milan.

That's about the depth of it. Everyone learns lessons about becoming less judgemental and adopting a more accepting approach to others and there are several rousing, colourful and sassy dance numbers. The songs are fairly forgettable, but who doesn't love a bit of wow factor on a big stage? Radebe is effervescent and engaging in the lead although I struggled with his South African accent on a few occasions. Aside from a few wobbly follow-spots the set transition from dowdy factory to glam runway holds up very well and everyone gives their absolute all to ensure the audience have a jolly good time. What's not to like?

Kinky Boots Tickets