Paramount Theatre Returns To Live Performances with Kinky Boots

Jul 28, 2021
Kinky Boots at Paramount Theatre

Nearly 16 months after dimming its famous marquee due to COVID-19, Aurora's Paramount Theatre has started rehearsals for its 10th Anniversary Broadway Series season opener, Kinky Boots, marking a pivotal moment for the second largest subscription house in the nation as it returns to live performances next month.

"It's my great pleasure to say: We look forward to being one of the first major theaters in Chicago to welcome audiences back, starting August 18! We appreciate our patrons for staying with us. We couldn't do any of it without you," said Tim Rater, President and CEO of Paramount Theatre.

Kinky Boots - the flashy, sassy, sexy story of big heels invading a small town - shook Broadway and was adored by critics and audiences, winning every major Best Musical Award including the Tony, the Grammy and London's Olivier Award. The now mega-popular musical features high-kicking music and lyrics by Grammy-winner Cyndi Lauper, and a book rooted in fun, love and acceptance by Broadway legend Harvey Fierstein.

Now it's Paramount's turn to try Lola's red, thigh-high stilettos on for size with the first regional production of Kinky Boots, fiercely directed by Paramount's Associate Artistic Producer and Casting Director Trent Stork.

Meet Charlie, a reluctant shoemaker, and Lola, a fierce drag queen. Charlie and Lola could not be more different. But when they find common ground in shoes, they see a whole new world of possibilities that will turn their small town upside down, and just might save Charlie's failing shoe factory. Inspired by true events, this huge-hearted hit tells the story of two people with nothing in common - or so they think. From its glorious costumes, to its dizzyingly tall heels and songs that will leave audiences humming for days, no show captures what it means to do what you love and love what you do more than Kinky Boots.

"Kinky Boots is the perfect show to reopen our doors," said Stork. "Kinky Boots has moments that feel like a rock show and tender-hearted moments that make you lean in. It expands from killer dance numbers to a book that is as humorous as it is heartening. It's a show that makes audiences want to connect with their fellow humans. I think we can all use that right now!"

Paramount Theatre will be adhering to all COVID-19 safety guidelines as mandated by the state of Illinois. Paramount anticipates updated guidelines by the state for indoor theater gatherings, and will communicate any updates and changes to policies with all ticket buyers. If Phase 5 gatherings require COVID-19 vaccinations for attendees, patrons will be required to show proof of vaccination to attend this performance. By purchasing tickets patrons are agreeing to adhere to the guidelines put in place at the time of their performance.