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Danielle Hope Kinky Boots
Danielle Hope Kinky Boots

5 Questions with Danielle Hope of Kinky Boots

You may recognize Danielle Hope as Dorothy from Andrew Lloyd’s West End production of The Wizard of Oz, a role she got by winning the 2010 BBC competition series Over The Rainbow. In addition, she has been in numerous productions in London’s West End and around the United Kingdom. Now, she is making her New York City stage debut in the Off-Broadway production of Kinky Boots.

The Off-Broadway company of Kinky Boots.
The Off-Broadway company of Kinky Boots. Photo by Matthew Murphy.

Hope stars in Kinky Boots as hopeless romantic Lauren, the role created on Broadway by Annaleigh Ashford. While not belting out the Cydni Lauper tune “The History of Wrong Guys,” Hope took some time with Broadway Direct to answer 5 questions, telling us why Emily Blunt is her inspiration, her love for Kinky Boots‘ UK origins, and her favorite NYC spots.


1. What inspired you to become an actor?

I love being immersed in other worlds and creating characters to live in them. I always loved dressing up in costumes and I think that abundance of creative freedom to imagine so many different versions of what your life could be really inspired me to be an actor.

2. Who in your field inspires you?

I love the work that Emily Blunt has created and the roles she has played are some of my dream roles (Mary Poppins, The Baker’s Wife). She has such a wonderful career and seems like such a fantastic human too!

Christian Douglas, Danielle Hope, and Callum Francis in Kinky Boots. Photo by Matthew Murphy.
Christian Douglas, Danielle Hope, and Callum Francis in Kinky Boots. Photo by Matthew Murphy.

3. What will audiences be most excited about seeing in Kinky Boots?

Firstly, of course, THE boots! There really is something for everyone in this show so it’s hard to pinpoint a singular highlight. I’m thrilled to be able to share a story that originates from the United Kingdom of course!

4. If you didn’t need to sleep at night, what would you spend your time doing?

I would either be sat at the wheel throwing pots or sewing fun clothes and writing music!

5. What is your favorite NYC spot?

I love to have a taste of home at Tea & Sympathy and like to do aerial silks at Om Factory for a great workout and a fun new (upside down) perspective!


You can catch Danielle in Kinky Boots, now playing at Off-Broadway’s Stage 42, and find her on Instagram here.