Express & Star

Cast of Kinky Boots meet Dudley schoolboy drag queen

The cast of Kinky Boots at Birmingham Hippodrome had a big welcome waiting for Dudley’s schoolboy drag queen, Athena Heart when she visited the production this week.

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Kinky Boots. The Birmingham Hippodrome. Picture by Simon Hadley

Last year, 14 year old Lewis Bailey, who performs as Athena Heart, was told by Castle High School and Visual Arts College in Dudley that he was not permitted to perform his drag act in the end-of-year talent show the day before it was to go ahead.

The school cited that they thought the act was ‘not appropriate’ due to Lewis’ age. However, despite not being able to perform his act, Lewis still chose to attend that day’s non-school uniform day in drag as Athena.

Promoting the message of 'just be who you want to be', the cast welcomed Athena with open arms and words of encouragement as she headed backstage after watching the multi-award-winning production.

Kinky Boots. The Birmingham Hippodrome. Picture by Simon Hadley

Currently playing at Birmingham Hippodrome until March 23, Kinky Boots tells the story of Charlie Price, a young man struggling to live up to his father’s expectations and continue the family business of Price and Son.

With the shoe factory’s future hanging in the balance, help arrives in the unlikely but spectacular form of Lola – a fabulous performer in need of some sturdy new stilettos.

Kinky Boots was nominated for seven Olivier Awards during its West End run and won the award for Best New Musical.

The production has now won every major Best Musical award across the globe and was seen by over 1.4 million people during its time in London alone.

To book tickets visit birminghamhippodrome.com or call 0844 338 5000.