Were it not for the fact Kinky Boots was originally a film, then a Broadway and West End show, you’d be forgiven for thinking this entire UK tour was built specifically for Johannes Radebe. The show’s iconic shiny red boots fit him like a glove, and if they were made for walking, it’s with him wearing them. Better known for his role as a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, as well as creating his own shows, Freedom and Freedom Unleashed, Radebe makes his acting debut here in a role he was born to play.

The clever quips, witty retorts and emotional intensity he’s already known for also sit squarely inside the character of Lola: a drag queen who knows how to put his tongue, heart and fists to good use when confronted by bigotry. Based (remarkably) on a true story, Kinky Boots follows the financial woes of a family-run Northampton footwear factory. With orders dwindling, they need to look outside the shoe box for future revenue, which comes in the unexpected form of reinforced high heels for men.

The songs, written by wild-haired pop icon Cyndi Lauper, bounce pleasingly along from pop to rock to disco. ‘Sex Is In The Heel’ brings the laughs, ‘Not My Father’s Son’ provokes tears, and the show’s catwalk closer, ‘Just Be’, is a rainbow flag-waving feelgood number that puts a smile on every face. The storyline packs a Billy Elliot-esque punch, championing a sense of community and giving those with a bigoted viewpoint a chance to redeem themselves. Aside from Radebe, whose every graceful pose and twirl draws the eye, special mention goes to Courtney Bowman as factory worker Lauren. Her hilarious number, ‘The History Of Wrong Guys’ is so well choreographed and delivered, it almost shines as brightly as those patent red boots. 

Kinky Boots The Musical runs until Saturday 26 July; reviewed at King’s Theatre, Glasgow.