Kinky Boots

Premieres Friday, November 29 at 9 p.m. on PBS (check local listings), pbs.org/gperf and the PBS Video app

Kinky Boots is the 2013 Broadway blockbuster with music and lyrics by pop icon Cyndi Lauper, a book by Tony-winning theater legend Harvey Fierstein and direction and choreography by Tony winner Jerry Mitchell (“La Cage aux Folles”) that went on to pick up every major Best Musical award, including the Tony, the GRAMMY and London’s Olivier Award. Based on true events, this big-hearted hit tells the story of two people with nothing in common—or so they think. Charlie is a British shoe factory owner struggling to save his family business. Lola—originally known as Simon from Clapton—is a fabulous nightclub entertainer with a wildly exciting idea. With a little compassion and a lot of understanding, this unexpected duo learns to embrace their differences and create a line of sturdy, stiletto-heeled boots for an entirely new clientele. In the end, their most meaningful achievement is their friendship. Great Performances presents the London production, featuring its original West End stars: Matt Henry in his Olivier-winning performance as Lola and Killian Donnelly as Charlie.

Kinky Boots is part of Great Performances’ third annual “Broadway’s Best” lineup of acclaimed theatrical productions, premiering Fridays, November 1-29 at 9 p.m. on PBS (check local listings), pbs.org/gperf and the PBS Video app. PBS station members can view the entire Great Performances “Broadway’s Best” lineup beginning November 1 via Passport (contact your local PBS station for details).