An Evening Without Kate Bush might not sound like something a fan would desire, but contrary to its title, the show is a dramatic, passionate love-letter to the alt pop superstar that raises the roof. Performed by Sarah-Louise Young and directed by Russel Lucas, the pair have created an inspired hour of cabaret that is a fan-favourite.
A performance that truly emulates the magical mystery of Kate Bush herself
Entering in a dramatic shawl, a crow feather headdress and a black leotard singing Dreams of Sheep, the show certainly starts with a Kate Bush-sized bang. Young creates an otherworldly atmosphere that takes your breath away. Her voice carries the same dulcet tones and timbre as Bush herself and she soars through the signature high notes and lilting melodies with ease. She isn’t pretending to be Kate Bush but rather shows the creativity and freedom she inspires through her cabaret.
Young is clearly a dynamic and expressive performer that makes use of her full body. She is multi-talented, performing in different languages to take the audience by surprise. Holding glowing objects and contorting her body with her costumes the performance is certainly wacky - which is apt considering its muse. Some of the songs were more stripped back, focusing on the vocals, which showcased Young’s singing and acting abilities; however, Army Dreamers and Running Up That Hill were magical spectacles, each with their own twist. The latter was performed with so much passion it takes your breath away.
The one drawback to the show is that there is slightly too much reliance placed on the audience in places, especially when it is not guaranteed that they are all part of the fanbase. When energy and momentum builds during the musical numbers, this can interrupt the flow.
Nevertheless, the show is a beautiful tribute not only to Kate Bush, but to the global community of fans and the connections made because of it. Sarah-Louise Young delivers a performance that truly emulates the magical mystery of Kate Bush herself.
