First Look: Johannes Radebe and Matt Cardle On Stage in Kinky Boots
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New images have been released of **Johannes Radebe** and **Matt Cardle** ahead of tonight’s first performance of the new production of *Kinky Boots The Musical*, opening at the [London Coliseum](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/venue/london-coliseum-london) on 17 March 2026.
The Olivier, Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning musical begins a strictly limited 17-week run, playing until 11 July 2026. A special Gala Night will take place on Sunday 29 March in support of international charity WaterAid.
**Radebe** stars as Lola, with **Cardle** as Charlie Price, leading a cast that includes **Tosh Wanagho-Maud** (Alternate Lola), **Courtney Bowman** (Lauren), **Billie-Kay** (Nicola), **Billy Roberts** (Don), **Rachel Izen** (Pat), **Jessica Daley** (Trish), **Jonathan Dryden Taylor** (Mr Price), **Scott Paige** (George) and **Liam Doyle** (Harry).
Based on a true story and the 2005 film, *Kinky Boots* follows Charlie as he inherits his family’s struggling shoe factory. When he meets Lola, an unexpected partnership offers a bold new way to save the business — proving that acceptance, reinvention and friendship can help everyone stand a little taller.
The production features a book by **Harvey Fierstein** and a score by **Cyndi Lauper**, and is directed by **Nikolai Foster**.
[*Kinky Boots*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/kinky-boots-tickets) plays at the London Coliseum for 17 weeks only. Book your tickets today.