But oh dear, what are we to make of Matt Cardle, winner of the X Factor back in 2010, in the underwritten role of reluctant factory owner Charlie Price? The singer has done stints in musicals (Memphis, Jesus Christ Superstar, & Juliet) alongside his recording career but doesn’t seem to have picked up much technique or showmanship in the process. In terms of impact, he’s the opposite of Radebe, exhibiting what Terry Pratchett called “charisn’tma”. When Charlie’s employee Lauren (Courtney Bowman) suddenly gets the hots for her morose, seedy-looking boss you think: what, him?
Kinky Boots review: Johannes Radebe is the saving grace of this mediocre show
