Centrestage Productions Youth Theatre [CPYT] 
The Point, Eastleigh 
Georgia Rose 
30 July 2025
Centrestage Productions Youth Theatre [CPYT] are lighting up The Point with a fabulously bold production of Kinky Boots, running until Saturday 2 August. Overflowing with energy, heart, and enough glitter to outshine any grey day, this youth version proves that big talent knows no age.
The passion and commitment from every member of the cast are immediately apparent, creating an atmosphere that is both electric and deeply moving.
As someone who’s loved this show for years, and having just seen the most recent UK tour, I can honestly say this youth production stands toe-to-toe with the professional version.
Based on true events, the story follows the unlikely collision of two very different worlds. Charlie is a young man who suddenly inherits his late father’s struggling shoe factory but has no passion for shoes. Then there’s Lola, an unforgettable drag queen who inspires Charlie to take the factory in a bold new direction. But first, they must learn to embrace each other’s differences. With plenty of compassion and understanding, they team up to create a line of sturdy stilettos the world has never seen.
The entire cast brings their A-game and then some. From start to finish, the singing and dancing are pure feel-good magic. Lola and her Angels dazzle with costumes that are as bold and brilliant as the performances themselves. Every number is executed with precision and heart, and the chemistry between the performers truly shines.
The set design complements this perfectly, featuring a dynamic scenery that transforms the stage and adds to the vibrant energy of the show. Thoughtful lighting and bold visuals create immersive scenes that pull the audience right into the heart of the story, enhancing every moment with style and flair.
Special mention must go to the live orchestra, who were impeccable throughout and made the whole production feel like a full-scale West End show. In fact, sitting in the audience, you could easily believe you were watching the next generation of West End stars. The confidence, stage presence and sheer joy these young performers radiate is astonishing. They should feel incredibly proud.
It’s no surprise the show ended with a well-deserved standing ovation. This cast worked their sparkly boots off, and it shows.
So, to all you “ladies, gentlemen, and those who have yet to make up their minds”: I urge you to catch it if you can. It’s a glorious reminder to be who you want to be, and wear the boots while you’re at it. This production isn’t just a show, it’s a celebration of courage, friendship, and the power of being unapologetically yourself.
