Lyric Arts in Anoka has announced the cast of the Twin Cities premiere of the musical “Kinky Boots,” which will run on the Main Street Stage July 12-Aug. 11.
The rocking, glamorous and heartfelt show will be directed by Vanessa Brooke Agnes.
“Kinky Boots is a dazzling story about inclusivity, love and acceptance of someone for who they are,” Agnes said. “I’ve always been inspired and fascinated by the art of drag and the joy, creativity and expression of our queer community. I’m extremely passionate about centering the voices of BIPOC and LGBTQIA2+ folx and this diverse, dynamic, dynamite cast will blow the roof off the Main Street Stage this summer!”
Leading the cast will be Mitchell Douglas (seen in “New Voices Cabaret”) as Lola and Lyric Arts newcomer Erik Speegle as Charlie. They will be joined by Grace Hillmyer (“Girl on the Train”) as Lauren, Waverly Ann McCollum (“9 to 5: The Musical, “The Spongebob Musical”) as Nicola, Quinn Forrest Masterson as Don, Collin Krieger as Harry, and Theo Janke-Furman (“9 to 5: The Musical”) as Richard. As named characters in addition to ensemble roles will be Danielle Birmingham as Trish, Daze Bishop as George, Eric Lee as Mr. Price, Alexis Neumann as Pat, and France A. Roberts (“The Wedding Singer”) as Simon Sr.
In addition to Agnes as director, the artistic team will be led by Anna Murphy as music director and Jaclyn McDonald as choreographer. Assisting Agnes in the direction of this show will be Alex Church. Bringing the world of “Kinky Boots” to life will also be lighting designer Shannon Elliott, props designer Vicky Erickson, sound designer Paul Estby, scenic designer Chad Van Kekerix, and costume designer Eleanor Schanilec. Serving as drag consultant will be Minneapolis-based drag performer Cam Pederson, known as Luna Muse, and Gillian Constable will be dialect coach.
Heading the stage management team is Grace Czywczynski with assistance from Laura Felde. The technical team consists of sound board operator Lea Brucker, run crew members Robin Lentine and Maddie Ronning, stitcher Becca Michelle, and spotlight operator Van Ott.
With an incredible team of actors, artists, and technicians, Agnes is excited to get started in on the rehearsal process set to start the beginning of June. When asked why folks should come out to see “Kinky Boots,” the answer comes from Agnes easily.
“It’s timely and relevant, an area premiere, laugh-out-loud funny, and full of heart,” Agnes said.
A Tony Award-winning musical by none other than Cyndi Lauper and Harvey Fierstein, “Kinky Boots” tells the uplifting story of Charlie Price, a struggling shoemaker who inherits his family’s failing business. Desperate to save the factory, Charlie teams up with Lola, a fabulous and fierce drag queen, to create a line of high-heeled boots for men. As they work together, Charlie and Lola discover the power of acceptance, self-expression, and the transformative power of a good pair of shoes.
“Kinky Boots” is a joyful celebration of diversity, courage, and the universal human desire to be true to oneself.
To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.lyricarts.org/kinky-boots.
“Kinky Boots” is the last show in Lyric Arts’ “big, bold, and brave” 2023–24 season that featured a collection of contemporary and classic shows including hilarious comedies, groundbreaking dramas, and gutsy musicals. Season 2024–25 will begin with “Peter and the Starcatcher” in September.
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