Andrew Faria helps bring the academic premiere of 'Kinky Boots' to the stage at Baldwin Wallace University

Berea, OH - Andrew Faria of East Providence (02914) was part of the cast and crew from Baldwin Wallace University that, under the direction of Victoria Bussert, produced the academic premiere of "Kinky Boots," winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Faria, a graduate of La Salle Academy majoring in music theatre, played the role of Charlie in the co-production between the BW Conservatory of Music's music theatre program and the department of theatre and dance.

Featuring a Tony-winning score by Cyndi Lauper and based on the uplifting book by four-time Tony-winner Harvey Fierstein, "Kinky Boots" tells the story of Charlie Price. After inheriting a nearly bankrupt shoe factory, he finds inspiration to save the factory in the form of Lola, a fabulous entertainer in need of sturdy stilettos. As they work to turn the factory around, the unlikely pair find they have more in common than they ever dreamed possible and discover that, when you change your mind about someone, you can change your whole world.

BW was granted the rights to stage "Kinky Boots" through support from faculty and alumni, including music theatre graduate Kyle Post, a longtime member of the Broadway cast. The academic premiere drew applause from the show's Broadway producer and rave critical reviews. It also included a BW music theatre homecoming and numerous opportunities to affirm and lead on the issue of inclusion.

"Kinky Boots" is one of an extensive number of performance experiences providing real-world opportunities for students at Baldwin Wallace University. Productions include plays, musicals, operas, music concerts and dance concerts. Details at bw.edu/events.

Baldwin Wallace University, founded in 1845, was one of the first colleges to admit students without regard to race or gender. An independent, coeducational university of 3,800 students, BW offers coursework in the liberal arts tradition in more than 80 academic areas. Located in Berea, 12 miles from downtown Cleveland, BW offers students the cultural, educational and business advantages of a major metropolitan area.