Matt Cardle Confirmed for West End Run of Kinky Boots
Published on 16 January 2026
Matt Cardle has been announced as the new Charlie Price in the upcoming West End run of Kinky Boots, joining Johannes Radebe when the hit musical steps into the London Coliseum this spring.
Cardle, who takes on the role of Charlie, described the opportunity as a career highlight, saying he is thrilled to be joining the production on one of London’s most iconic stages. He added that stepping into a role he has admired for years feels like a genuine dream come true, and that sharing the stage with Radebe makes the experience even more special.
Johannes Radebe will return to the role of Lola, having previously played the part during the show’s tour, bringing his performance back to the West End for the London Coliseum run.
Alternate Lola Also Announced
Joining the company as Alternate Lola is Tosh Wanogho-Maud, who currently performs the role on the European leg of the tour. He will appear as Lola during Monday performances from 6 April 2026, with audiences advised to check official channels for full casting schedules.
What’s Kinky Boots About?
Based on the 2005 film, Kinky Boots follows factory heir Charlie Price, who finds an unexpected lifeline for his struggling family business through a bold partnership with drag artist Lola. Together, they set out to create a new future — and a new kind of shoe — that challenges convention and celebrates individuality.
When is Kinky Boots on in London?
Kinky Boots will open in London on 17 March 2026 and will run until 11 July 2026. Ahead of the West End engagement, the production will play a week of preview performances at Curve in Leicester from 3 March.
Who is in the Kinky Boots Creative Team?
The revival, directed by Curve artistic director Nikolai Foster, brings Cyndi Lauper’s Tony and Olivier Award-winning score and Harvey Fierstein’s book back to the capital, reimagining the much-loved story for a new audience.
The creative team includes choreography by Leah Hill, set design by Robert Jones, costumes by Robert Jones and Tom Rogers, musical supervision by George Dyer, lighting by Ben Cracknell, sound by Adam Fisher, casting by Harry Blumenau, wigs, hair and make-up by Campbell Young Associates, and associate direction by Michaela Powell, with production management by Setting Line.
Book your Kinky Boots tickets now.
By Hay Brunsdon
I've 15 years of writing and editorial experience, and starting working in the West End theatre industry in 2012. When not watching or writing about theatre I'm usually swimming, hiking, running, or training for triathlons in the Stroud valleys.