Kinky Boots

Mum and I have officially become locally acclaimed theatre critics. Last month, while Mum was in town, I booked tickets to see Kinky Boots, a new musical playing at the Capitol Theatre in Haymarket. The production was brilliant. A colourful cavalcade of drag, choreography and foot-tapping tunes. It’s easily one of the best musicals I’ve seen in years.

Kinky Boots transports audiences from a struggling gentlemen's shoe factory in Northampton to the catwalks of Milan. It's won six Tony Awards including Best Musical. The story is based on a popular 2005 British film and features songs by Cyndi Lauper. Callum Francis was outstanding as Lola, a black drag queen who opened the eyes of factory owner Charlie to an unexplored niche market: high-end ladies' footwear for men.

While enjoying a pre-show drink in the lobby we were approached by a presenter from the Sydney Weekender. This television show is a local institution. Every Sunday evening it showcases events, venues, and other entertainment activities around the Sydney region.

The presenter was fascinated to learn that Mum had flown in from New Zealand to see the show. She asked Mum what it was about the musical that got her onto a plane to come see it. To her surprise, Mum replied, “Because he’s paying” and pointed to me. We all burst into laughter. It was no surprise then, that a few weeks later, Mum and I made our broadcast debut as Sydney theatre critics.

Here's a quick and dirty video I took from my laptop. I'll try to upload an original copy soon.