Broadway Hit 'Kinky Boots' Returns for New Season with 'KINKY BOOST UP' Theme
The beloved musical 'Kinky Boots' is set to return, kicking off its nationwide tour on November 1st at the Goyang Aramnuri Arts Center. This new season, chosen as a highlight for CJ ENM's 30th-anniversary celebration, will operate under the slogan 'KINKY BOOST UP', promising fresh energy with a mix of returning and new cast members.
Based on a true story, the musical depicts a struggling Northampton shoe factory that finds unexpected success by manufacturing stylish boots for drag queens. The narrative centers on the evolving friendship between Charlie, the factory owner, and Lola, a fabulous drag queen, delivering a powerful message of acceptance and understanding. Since its Broadway premiere in 2013, where it swept six Tony Awards, 'Kinky Boots' has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase worldwide, including multiple awards in Korea since its 2014 debut.
Following its highly successful 10th-anniversary run in 2024, which saw an average audience occupancy rate of 99.8%, the musical is poised for another hit season. The cast for the seventh iteration includes Kim Ho-young, Lee Jae-hwan, and Shin Jae-bum as Charlie, and Kang Hong-seok, Baek Hyung-hoon, and Seo Kyung-soo as Lola. Han Jae-ah and Huh Yoon-seul will portray Lauren, with Shin Seung-hwan, Shim Jae-hyun, and Kim Dong-hyun taking on the role of Don.
Veteran performers like Kim Ho-young and Shin Jae-bum return as Charlie, bringing their established portrayals to the role, while newcomer Lee Jae-hwan is expected to bring fresh energy. Kang Hong-seok, a staple as Lola since the original production, will reprise his charismatic performance, joined by Baek Hyung-hoon and Seo Kyung-soo, who are set to offer their unique interpretations of the iconic character. The tour commences on November 1st, with the Seoul performances scheduled from December 17th at the Charlotte Theater.
'Kinky Boots' is a musical based on the true story of a struggling British shoe factory that finds success by catering to the drag queen community. The show explores themes of diversity, acceptance, and the power of friendship across different walks of life. It is renowned for its vibrant costumes, energetic choreography, and uplifting score.