Matt Henry, a former finalist on BBC One’s The Voice, has been cast as Lola in Harvey Fierstein and Cyndi Lauper’s West End version of hit film Kinky Boots.
Inspired by a true story, Kinky Boots tells the story of Charlie Price who reluctantly inherits his father’s Northampton shoe factory. Trying to live up to his father’s legacy and save the family business from bankruptcy, Charlie finds inspiration in the form of Lola.
A fabulous entertainer in need of some sturdy stilettos, Lola turns out to be the one person who can help Charlie become the man he’s meant to be. As they work to turn the factory around, this unlikely pair finds that they have more in common than they ever dreamed possible… and discovers that when you change your mind, you can change the world.
Henry will star opposite Killian Donnelly, currently playing Huey Calhoun in Memphis at the Shaftesbury Theatre, who takes on the role of Charlie. Joining the pair are Amy Lennox (Lauren), Jamie Baughan (Don), Amy Ross (Nicola) and Michael Hobbs (George).
Director and choreographer, Jerry Mitchell said: “Casting the entire London company of Kinky Boots has been an amazing and energising experience; each character has a true individual significance in this show and that makes it so special.
“We are delighted to have found our Lola and Charlie in the hugely talented Matt Henry and Killian Donnelly. Both gentlemen will bring effortless charm and sensational voices to the show.
“I am really looking forward to working with all my wonderful cast on Kinky Boots, which will be my 7th production in the West End.”
Harvey Fierstein said: “The inspiring story of Kinky Boots is about to complete its full circle journey from Northampton to the silver screen to Broadway and now, at last, back home to London.
“It’s been an absolute thrill to witness the giant heart of our show raise audiences up out of their seats in clamorous joy night after night all across the States. I can’t wait to experience its homecoming with our friends across the pond.”
Cyndi Lauper, who is overseeing the show’s music, added: “It has been a wonderful adventure and a privilege for me, to play a part in creating Kinky Boots.
“Everyone can relate to this universal story, and I am convinced that people in the UK are going to fall in love with it – and the music will hopefully get them tapping their toes!”
Kinky Boots will open at London’s Adelphi Theatre on 15 September 2015, with previews from 21 August.