Underbelly Boulevard Soho, London – until 26th April 2026
Reviewed by Celia AS
5*****
Kate Bush isn’t here…but we are. An Evening Without Kate Bush is a tribute to Kate Bush, the mega fans, the tribute acts, the people who have vaguely heard of her, and everyone in between. This run at the Underbelly Boulevard in Soho is the first time the extended two act version of the show has been seen on the London stage and it does not disappoint. Sarah-Louise Young and Russell Lucas have created a show that is warm and silly, never judgemental and always kind.
An Evening Without Kate Bush is comedy, cabaret, and a gig all parcelled up in a leotard and a feather headdress. It is a heartfelt tribute to Kate Bush (and the Kate Bush universe) by someone with an exceptional ability to connect with an audience of people who know every word of every song and people who vaguely know that song from the Save The Children ad in the 90s. Sarah-Louise Young performs as the singer and also as herself, a lifelong fan. Using hand held lights, a variety of wigs and costumes, and some audience participation, Young takes us through Kate Bush’s well known and lesser known songs including Babooshka (with correct pronunciation), Cloudbusting, and Rubberband Girl. The audience howls the chorus and waves along, and if you are very lucky you might get asked to join Young on stage. As Kate Bush, her voice is perfect, as a cabaret performer she is funny and makes such smart choices with her performance with a joy that radiates and keeps everyone engaged and comfortable, the normal fear of audience participation abated.
This show is a delight filled celebration of community and inclusiveness. An Evening Without Kate Bush is for everyone; the Fish People, Stranger Things fans, and people who appreciate puppetry and the best torches you’ll ever see. Sarah-Louise Young bookends the show with “Kate Bush isn’t here….but we are” and it couldn’t be a more perfect reminder to be present, to show up for each other, and to embrace the silly.