REVIEW: Kinky Boots at Sunderland Empire
Written by Lucas Ward on 2nd December 2025
Kinky Boots strides onto the Sunderland Empire stage from 2 to 6 December, and it is not a show to miss, thanks hugely to the electric performance from Tosh Wanogho-Maud as Lola.
The production tells the story of Charlie Price (Dan Partridge), the struggling heir to a family shoe business whose fortunes are transformed when he meets drag queen Lola (Tosh Wanogho-Maud). Harvey Fierstein’s book is adapted from the story told in the 2004 film, and the original music from the iconic Cyndi Lauper is the perfect accompaniment.
Tosh Wanogho-Maud as Lola
While the show initially seemed to be off to a slow start, this was immediately shifted by the appearance of Lola as we are introduced to not just her, but also her ensemble of Angels in the ‘House of Lola’. Wanogho-Maud’s voice has echoes of some of the greatest vocalists in history in a mix of Luther Vandross’ soul to Whitney Houston’s gentleness. It’s a ‘diamond in the rough’ voice that perfectly compliments Partridge’s traditionally refined theatre vocals, allowing for them to satisfyingly blend together with ease.
The performance of Courtney Bowman as Lauren was a highlight, as her rendition of The History of Wrong Guys is a great showcase of not just her impressive vocal ability, but also how she can incorporate her comedic acting into the song. Throughout the show, both Bowman and Scott Paige as George are the perfect comic characters, with the audience howling at times due to their verbal and physical comedy.
With the second half of the show carrying the bulk of the dramatic elements of the narrative, it’s only fitting that the closing numbers Raise You Up and Just Be provide quite possibly the most joyous finale to a show you will ever see. As well as allowing for the perfect character development for main villain Don, it provides a real celebration of pride, togetherness, and queer identity and culture.
With the waving of a pride flag, the show came to a close but not without a brilliant tribute to the crew that work backstage on the production. They are brought out onto the stage as the cast take their bows to be given their dues by an adoring crowd. It is far from undeserved though, as the set design and staging was executed perfectly throughout the night. Whether it be the flies used to raise and lower particular aspects of the set, or the lighting choices to highlight the extraordinary onstage performances, it is a real team effort that makes Kinky Boots a show that deserves to be seen.
Kinky Boots is directed by Nikolai Foster and produced by ROYO and CURVE.
Kinky Boots is at Sunderland Empire from 2 to 6 December and tickets are available to purchase at ATG Tickets.
