Kinky Boots (Touring)

There is a specific kind of electricity that fills the Ed Mirvish Theatre when a show like Kinky Boots takes the stage. It’s a rare alchemy of heart, humour, and enough sequins to be seen from the back row of the balcony. Based on the 2005 film, the musical tells the story of Charlie Price, a man struggling to save his family’s failing shoe factory in Northampton, and his unexpected partnership with Lola, a fabulous drag queen who needs a sturdy pair of stilettos. What follows is a riotous, moving journey about breaking down barriers and finding the courage to be exactly who you were meant to be.

The Cyndi Lauper Factor Let’s be honest: the heartbeat of this show is the music. When Cyndi Lauper signed on to write the score, she didn’t just write show tunes; she wrote anthems. Lauper brought her signature 80s pop sensibility, soul, and storytelling prowess to the theatre, resulting in a soundtrack that feels both classic and contemporary. From the driving, high-energy opening numbers to the soaring, emotional ballads like 'Hold Me in Your Heart,' the music demands that you feel something. It’s rare to find a musical where you’re just as likely to be humming the melodies on the streetcar ride home as you are to be wiping away a tear from the sheer sincerity of the message.

A Historic Stage for a Modern Classic The Ed Mirvish Theatre, located on Victoria Street, is the perfect home for this production. Originally opened in 1920 as the Pantages, it’s a stunning piece of Toronto history with its ornate ceiling and grand, velvet-draped atmosphere. There is something poetic about hosting a show that celebrates the beauty of transformation and the art of drag in a venue that has spent over a century reinventing itself. Whether you’re in the orchestra or the mezzanine, the theatre offers an intimacy that makes the big, brassy dance numbers feel like they’re happening right in your living room.

Making a Night of It You are perfectly positioned in the heart of the downtown core, which means you have zero excuses for a boring pre-show evening. If you’re looking for a bite before the curtain rises, head just a few blocks north to Yonge-Dundas. For a sophisticated pre-theatre cocktail and some elevated small plates, check out the vibrant spots along Queen Street East or duck into the bustling restaurants tucked away in the nearby Financial District. If you have time after the show, the area is alive with energy; grab a late-night drink and debate which of Lola’s outfits was the absolute showstopper of the night.

Good to Know - **Getting There:** The Ed Mirvish Theatre is a stone’s throw from Queen Station on Line 1. If you’re driving, don’t stress about street parking—there are several large Green P parking garages within a five-minute walk, specifically around Victoria and Shuter. - **Dress Code:** While there is no official dress code, the audience for Kinky Boots is notoriously stylish. Don’t be afraid to lean into the theme—a little extra sparkle or a bold pair of boots will fit right in with the crowd. - **Accessibility:** The theatre is well-equipped for accessibility, but if you have specific seating needs, be sure to contact the box office well in advance, as these popular touring productions tend to sell out quickly. - **Pro-Tip:** Keep an eye on the Mirvish website for any potential 'talk-back' sessions or special events associated with this run. Seeing the cast discuss the technical marvel of dancing in six-inch heels is almost as entertaining as the show itself.