The Broadway and West End phenomenon, Kinky Boots The Musical, is strutting out in a brand-new production! This joy-filled sensation, based on a true story and hit movie, features music and lyrics by pop icon Cyndi Lauper, a hilarious and life- affirming book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein and is directed by Nikolai Foster.
Kara who is playing Nicola in this brand-new production, took the time to answer a few questions for us about the show and her career so far.
Q1)Please can you tell our readers a little bit about yourself,how you got into Musical Theatre and some of your highlights in your career so far?
I started performing quite young and did my first professional show when I was 11 years old playing Annie (with the lovely Paul O’Grady as Miss Hannigan). It definitely gave me the bug and I later trained in Acting at The Central School of Speech and Drama. I have been lucky enough to play some amazing parts including Cilla Black in Cilla the Musical and Sally Bowles in Cabaret.
Q2)Kinky Boots is such a feel-good show,loved by so many!When were you first introduced to the show and what made you say ‘YES’ to role?
I saw it in the West End a few years ago and absolutely loved it. It’s such a beautiful show with a powerful sentiment so it was an easy yes when I got offered the job. I’ve also wanted to work with Nikolai Foster (director) for a long time so that was a real plus for me.
Q3)What is your favourite song from the show, and why?
My favourite song is Not My Father’s Son sung by Lola (Johannes Radebe) and Charlie (Dan Partridge). It’s the most beautiful and touching song and makes me emotional every time.
Q4)You are currently in rehearsals,How are they going?What has the process been like so far?
We’ve been on the road with the show since January and it’s going really well. The audiences are loving it! It’s been so amazing to perform to sold out audiences up and down the country.
Q5)What is the most influential thing someone has ever said to you regarding your performing career to date?
I can’t think of something specific that someone has said to me but on of the lyrics in the song ‘If Mountains Were Easy to Climb’ from Mrs Henderson Presents always sticks in my head.
“Why would we even bother to dream if mountains were easy to climb”
Sometimes you have challenges along the way but if everything in life was easy you wouldn’t have goals and dreams so I always remember that any knock back is just a part of the journey.
Q6)Kinky Boots the Musical is based on the 2005 movie Kinky Boots which is mostly inspired by true events … What other movie or true-life documentary would make a great musical (in your opinion)?
I always thought the Julia Roberts film Erin Brockovich or the incredible film Hidden Figures, which are both based on true stories, would make brilliant musicals.
Q7)If you could send a message to your 2015 self what would you say?
You’re about to get your big break, keep going!
Q8)Kinky Boots is touring the UK this year, why should people come and see the show?
It’s pure joy and you will leave the theatre feeling truly uplifted. The cast are really something special and not to be missed!
