Last week a friend invited me to see Kinky Boots at the Broward Center. My first reaction was “Yes! Absolutely!“, and that was before I learned that there would be a backstage tour and lunch before the matinée performance.
The event was sponsored by Funding Arts Broward (FAB!), a non-profit dedicated to supporting the arts. FAB! was formed in response to the significant cuts in government funding for the arts. Members contribute annually to a grant fund and enjoy programs throughout the year dedicated to the arts.
Last week approximately 50 members and guests gathered in a private room for an excellent lunch catered by Artisan Foods. Anytime Brad is doing the catering, I know the meal will be good. This lunch was no exception. As everyone entered the room hors d’oeveres were passed (teeny Beef Wellingtons! Miniature stuffed baked potatoes!) while the bartender served wine, Prosecco, and cocktails. Lunch was salad topped with either chicken or salmon, popovers, and a layered cake-in-a-jar dessert.
Before lunch was a backstage tour. There was a strict “no photography” rule enforced, so you’ll have to take my word that it was fabulous. We visited the stage, the quick-change dressing room, and saw the series of tracks and pulleys used for the sets. It is a decidedly un-glamorous looking setup for a show filled with glitter, sequins, and glam. Alas, that is the magic.
I learned that each of the 50 pairs of boots used during the show is handmade. Anytime there is a repair needed, the boots are shipped off to the bootmaker in New York. There are two identical pairs of each boot, just in case.
If you have not seen Kinky Boots, I highly recommend it. It is fun, mostly upbeat, and the boots are amazing. If you missed Kinky Boots at the Broward Center, the show will be at the Kravis center in West Palm Beach next year.
