What it takes to be in the Kinky Boots cast
If there's one thing we thought when we went to see Kinky Boots at Capital Theatre in Sydney recently, it was how we could wrangle our way up onstage with them.
Not only are the songs inspiring, the set dazzling and the shoe-game strong, but the cast's voices are mesmerising and most importatly, they look like they're having a blast up there.
The songs which were composed by musical legend Cyndi Lauper, tell the story of Charlie, who takes over the family business and meets drag queen Simon (Lola) on the way.
To find out everything we've wanted to know about the hit Broadway musical, Be spoke with 28-year-old lead Callum Francis, AKA Lola, for his inside scoop on walking in heels, keeping his energy up and becomng Lola every night of the week.
What made you want to start a musical career?
I started quite late after watching a Miss Saigon UK tour with my parents. Within a year I was moving to London and beginning my training at a musical theatre college. After graduating in 2010 I began working in London’s West End, understudying various roles in various musicals until coming to Australia to originate the role of Lola here.
Whatattracted you to the role of Lola in Kinky Boots?
There was the instant attraction to the bubbly, vibrant & lively Lola. But what really caught me was the fact that the character has layers and is extremely vulnerable. Playing this role allows me to be two completely different people.
How did you prepare for how physical the role is?
I’m a gym-goer, which helps massively and with continued work I do with my trainer that helps physically with such a demanding role. But as well as physically the role is demanding vocally. My days are spent vocal resting in preparation for the show. That is harder than the physical side of things.
What’sitlike being in the boots for hours on end?
The red boots, which are THE boots. I actually wear them for about 30 mins of the show. At the risk of making most girls reading this jealous, I have 8 pairs of fantastic handmade sparkling heels. They are made for my foot so they are comfortable as possible but they are still six inch heels.
What tips would you give people for walking in heels?
The same somebody gave me. Stride out in confidence, if you tip toe around you're more likely to fall.
Tell us about your own hair and make-up routine before the show
So, I arrive at the theatre two hours before for my prep time. Connie my wonderful make up lady takes about 1hr 15mins to do my full face of makeup. She has to deal with me messing with whatever my attention decides. I can’t sit still and she puts up with it perfectly. First my eyebrows get glued down and covered to make way for my lady brows. Then the face, making my boy features into girl features.
How do you keep your energy up and entertain the audience every night?
Its honestly down to the audience, I feed their energy back to them. It makes my job so much easier seeing people laughing and enjoying the show. With their energy, I can go out there and do my job.
How will you relax once the show is over?
It’s nice to meet people afterwards at stage door and thank them for coming. Because of the work load I crash after a show, I shower, warm down, eat and chill. Must steam and things also in prep for the next days of shows.
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