Western Michigan University to Premiere Kinky Boots
The musical production opens at Shaw Theatre on October 30 and runs through November 15.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Dance
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Western Michigan University Theatre will premiere its production of Kinky Boots on October 30. The show will run at the university's Shaw Theatre through November 15.
Why it matters
Director Jay Berkow selected the Tony Award-winning musical to highlight themes of inclusion, acceptance, and love. The production serves as a collaborative effort featuring student-designed sets, lights, and props.
The production features a cast of 22 people who received specialized training in waacking and vogue dance styles from Bird Clarkson. Tickets for the show can be purchased by calling (269) 387-6222.
The players
Jay Berkow
He is the director of the Western Michigan University Theatre production of Kinky Boots.
Chris Reed
He portrays the character Lola in the upcoming stage production.
Haakan Packwood
He plays the lead role of Charlie in the university's adaptation of the musical.
Cyndi Lauper
She is the singer and songwriter who composed the music and lyrics for the Broadway musical.
Harvey Fierstein
He is the playwright who wrote the book for the musical Kinky Boots.
The details
Cast members Chris Reed and Haakan Packwood star as Lola and Charlie in this adaptation of the work by Cyndi Lauper and Harvey Fierstein. Students are responsible for the technical production elements including sound, lighting, and stage design.
Timeline
October 30, 2026: Opening night of Kinky Boots.
October 31, 2026: Second performance coinciding with Halloween.
November 15, 2026: Final scheduled performance of the production.
Industry Dynamics
This production follows the established artistic standard set by the Tony Award-winning musical Kinky Boots. It reflects a broader trend of collegiate theater programs staging major professional musicals to provide students with complex, contemporary performance training.
Attendees can contact (269) 387-6222 to secure tickets for performances at Shaw Theatre. For the performance on October 31, audience members are encouraged to arrive in costumes to celebrate the Halloween holiday.
The takeaway
This production emphasizes the university's commitment to inclusive storytelling through professional-level student collaboration. Patrons should book tickets early to ensure access to the two-week engagement at Shaw Theatre.
Further reading
For more arts and performance news, visit the Dance section.
More information
Purchase tickets or view show information on the theatre ticket portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WMUK.
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