I was barely one week old when
Kate Bush quit touring. Thirty-five years, three months and thirteen days later, tonight’s return to the live stage was literally the event of a lifetime. Arms pinched red, not quite able to believe that something this good was really going to happen, I was one step away from a cardiac arrest… Kate freaking Bush! In real, actual life! Suffice to say, this is not an objective ‘review’.
Eighteen months in the making, and with a running time of nearly 3 hours plus interval, it was clear from the outset that we were here to see a piece of theatre rather than a concert. That said, the first of the three acts is surprisingly spare as Kate gives herself not much more to do than a lot of gesturing, pointing and small, slightly awkward twirls around the stage. The focus is entirely on her voice and the flawless musicianship of her seven-strong band, though lighting designer Mark Henderson deserves every ounce of praise for his outstanding contributions. There are no dancers, no props, no distractions, just humble, happy Kate and a five-piece chorus starring her 16 year old son and