An Evening Without Kate Bush at Underbelly Boulevard, London Review
Written by Cathie for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review. All views are our own
This show contains mild language, suggestive dancing, audience participation, moments of darkness and flashing lights.
Whether you’re running up that hill, chasing after army dreamers or asking Heathcliff to open the window, the majority of the world have heard Kate Bush’s incredible iconography in one form or another, even if only via Save the Children adverts or viral social media videos. Performer Sarah- Louise Young and Russell Lucas have created a worldwide Fringe best seller show, “An Evening Without Kate Bush”.
This tribute show seeks to celebrate all things Kate Bush, and the two-act show graces the West End for the first time. Part cabaret, part comedy show, yet entirely a heartfelt tribute to Kate Bush, this show is a one-woman performance, entirely showcased by Performer Sarah-Louise Young. Without many spoilers, the show focuses on Bush’s albums and inspirations behind her songs. Young sings a variety of Bush’s songs, including songs such as "Running Up That Hill“ and more eclectic hits such as “Babushka”. Her singing voice is beautifully ethereal and an almost perfect match to Bush’s famous voice. With a one-woman show, all of the pressure is on one performer and the chemistry is based upon them and the audience.
Young is one of the most welcoming and inclusive performers on the West End. Her genuine joy, subtle humour, powerful vulnerability and gentle wit make this show an excellent and engaging experience throughout. She captivates the audience and celebrates all within, including asking for kindness to reviewers with notebooks and not overwhelming the front row with audience participation. Much of the show is based on this audience participation, and her sheer joy in learning everyone’s memories of Kate Bush is infectious, with a long line to meet her after the show.
There are plenty of jokes and anecdotes Young has collected from other “Fish” fans, and plenty of humorous moments peppered throughout the show. This tribute show is also incredibly welcoming to newcomers who do not know much about Kate Bush and welcomes all regardless of their level of knowledge and love. This is a difficult balance to create, but Young effortlessly forms a perfect balance for the entire audience. The new version of this show is a two-act version with each act running for 45 minutes.
This show balances the pacing well, mixing the different elements so that it is a fun and very relaxing performance. An Evening Without Kate Bush is a joyful celebration of all things Kate Bush. It is an oasis of warm, welcoming music and laughter and a perfect escape from the manic day to day that London provides. If you want to experience a true highlight of fringe theatre, a gentle night out and fun singing along to Kate Bush then this is the show for you.
An Evening Without Kate Bush plays at the Underbelly Boulevard Soho, London until 26 April
★★★★★
