Boots, boots, everybody’s talking about men’s health week
These boots were made for … TALKING and that’s just what they’ll do! Ahead of the imminent arrival of Kinky Boots this month, Sunderland Empire has teamed up with Sunderland MIND in support of the national Men’s Health Week campaign which kicks off this week, 10-16 June.
Men from businesses across the region have donned the iconic red boots from the show to shine a light on the campaign to encourage men to talk more openly about health issues.
Sunderland MIND is an independent charity run locally to provide confidential, high-quality services for individuals, carers and families experiencing emotional or mental health problems. As part of their support services, Sunderland MIND runs a Men’s Group, the Men’s group meets in an informal environment, allowing men to talk in a relaxed, comfortable and confidential space.
“Sunderland MIND Men’s Group is a space for men to come and share how their weeks been, what’s going on in their life, or just to have a bit of a natter over a cup of tea or coffee. We ensure a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Men don’t talk as much as they should do about themselves and their wellbeing, and we provide a relaxed space where that can change.”
Callum Parker, Young People’s Support Worker, Sunderland MIND
Bucket collections will be in place at the theatre and all customer donations for the month of June will go to Sunderland MIND to support their vital community projects.
The Kinky Boots campaign has seen staff from Sunderland Empire, Station Taxis, the Empire Cinema, Audi Wearside, SUN FM’s Simon Grundy and Smooth North East’s Steve Colman, try the boots on for size.
“It’s great to see everyone come together for Men’s Health Week. Our industry is predominantly made up of male taxi drivers, so we feel it is important to get involved to generate further awareness around men’s health issues and encourage more men to talk and seek any help they may need related to their health.”
Trevor Hines, Managing Director, Station Taxis
“We are delighted to work with Sunderland MIND to help raise further awareness of their services and Men’s Health Week. The iconic red boots from Kinky Boots are a great way to share the message and it’s fantastic to see businesses showing their support and getting behind the campaign.
Claire Pickersgill, Communications Manager, Sunderland Empire
It would be great to get even more businesses involved so please get in touch if you’d like to show your support and try the boots for size.”
Kinky Boots, the winner of every major Best Musical award is set to strut into Sunderland Empire 25 June – 6 July 2019. This joyous story of Brit grit to high-heeled hit is inspired by true events, taking audiences from a gentlemen’s shoe factory in Northampton to the glamorous catwalks of Milan.
Charlie Price is struggling to live up to his father’s expectations and continue the family business of Price & Son. With the factory’s future hanging in the balance, help arrives in the unlikely but spectacular form of Lola, a fabulous performer in need of some sturdy new stilettos.
With a book by Broadway legend and four-time Tony® Award-winner Harvey Fierstein (La Cage aux Folles), and songs by Grammy® and Tony® winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, this joyous musical celebration is about the friendships we discover, and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind.
West End star Kayi Ushe will be putting on the boots to play Lola, he will be joined by Paula Lane as Lauren, best known for her role as Kylie Platt in Coronation Street, and Joel Harper-Jackson will be playing Charlie Price.
Tickets available in person at the Box Office on High Street West, from the Ticket Centre on 0844 871 3022* or online at www.ATGtickets.com/Sunderland*
*Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge. Booking and transaction fees may apply.
