Johannes Radebe to make West End debut in Kinky Boots

Johannes Radebe to make West End debut in Kinky Boots

07-07-25

Following a sold-out UK and Ireland tour, Kinky Boots the Musical will strut its way into the West End next spring for a strictly limited 17-week season at the London Coliseum. Stepping back into the iconic red boots is Strictly Come Dancing star Johannes Radebe.

The Olivier, Tony and Grammy Award-winning musical will run from 17 March to 11 July 2026, with a week of previews at Leicester Curve from 3 March. Directed by Curve’s Artistic Director Nikolai Foster, this new production features choreography by Leah Hill, musical supervision by George Dyer, and designs by Robert Jones and Tom Rogers.

With a book by Harvey Fierstein and a score by Cyndi Lauper, Kinky Boots has become a global hit since it first premiered on Broadway and in the West End. Based on a true story and the 2005 film, the show follows Charlie Price, who inherits his family’s failing shoe factory and forms an unexpected partnership with drag queen Lola, leading to a fabulous line of high-heeled boots and a heartwarming tale of friendship, identity and acceptance.

Radebe made his musical theatre debut as Lola earlier this year on tour and says the role has been six years in the making. “It is the greatest honour and responsibility to bring this show to the world-famous, iconic London Coliseum. I’ll be walking in the footsteps of theatre giants in my own sequinned pair of red leather Kinky Boots.”

Best known for his groundbreaking Strictly partnership with John Whaite, Radebe has become one of the UK’s most beloved dance stars. His credits include sold-out solo tours Freedom and House of Jojo, film choreography for Pretty Red Dress, and his bestselling memoir Jojo: Finally Home, now in development as a feature film.

Cyndi Lauper, composer and lyricist, said: “I’m so thrilled that Kinky Boots is returning home to London. When audiences leave the show, they feel happy and uplifted, and that’s something the world could really use right now.”

Book writer Harvey Fierstein added: “Just knowing that Kinky Boots is returning to its birthplace gives me goosebumps. The anticipation of this new production has me hanging from the edge of my seat.”

This vibrant new production is produced by ROYO, Runaway Entertainment and Curve. Expect high heels, powerful voices and a whole lot of heart.

Tickets go on sale 15 July 2025
For updates, visit the official site HERE