Well, I expected this show to be a straightforward tribute to Kate Bush – how wrong I was, it was so much more. I would probably describe it as more like a comedy show with Kate Bush songs thrown in. It did help if (like the majority of the audience) you were an ardent fan of Kate Bush herself, although this was by no means an essential pre-requisite for enjoying the show.
The lights dimmed and a darkly clad Sarah-Louise Young appeared on the stage to the sounds of Hounds of Love and this initiated a section of audience participation where a couple of willing volunteers were enticed onto the stage to sing backing vocals to the song Cloud bursting, which had all the audience waving their arms in time to the music. This was only the start of an evening which emphasised her amazing rapport with the audience, in fact audience participation was a major part of the evening’s entertainment. It didn’t take long for Young to have them in the palm of her hand.
An amusing version of Babooshka followed (in Russian!) and showed how we had been singing it wrong for all these years. The remainder of the first act was made up of a hilarious comedic performance with a number of maybe lesser known songs thrown into the mix. Plus, various costume changes, including what Young claimed was the original wig from the very first Kate Bush tribute act.
The second act of the show, directed by Russell Lucas, without detracting from the comedy of the first, included more of what people would consider the more popular songs, including Hammer Horror, running up that hill and, my personal favourite, The Man with the Child in his Eyes, which was delivered brilliantly.
Of course, no Kate Bush tribute would be complete without the famous Wuthering Heights. The backing track started up, the audience waited for the song to start – and waited, and waited, but it never happened. All the actions were there but no vocals, not what was expected! Eventually Young just turned around her microphone and allowed the audience to let rip, only joining in herself on the final chorus. Young then left the stage to a well-deserved standing ovation for this masterpiece of comedy theatre.
I suppose all I can say is…..WOW! If you get chance to see this show on its nationwide tour, do so, you won’t be disappointed. https://www.withoutkatebush.com/tour-1
Reviewer: David S Clarke
Reviewed: 26th March 2022
North West End UK Rating: ★★★★