Kate Bush as you’ve never heard her before!

Kate Bush circa 1980.

Kate Bush circa 1980.

One of the most influential and innovative musicians of the modern era, Kate Bush has legions of fans all over the world. She’s won a Brit Award, been nominated for three Grammys and appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). In fact, perhaps the only accolade the 58-year-old singer hasn’t received is a live-music burlesque tribute. Until now, that is.

On Feb. 12, Vancouver’s monthly burlesque event Kitty Nights presents its tribute to Bush. Held at Kitty Nights’ East Van home, the Biltmore Cabaret (2755 Prince Edward St.), the night includes local burlesque performers and musicians in a tribute to the singer, who had her first number one British hit at 19 in 1978 with “Wuthering Heights.” And what better way to ring in the provincial Family Day holiday than with burlesque performed to the music of Kate Bush? 

The tribute comes following renewed interest in the reclusive British singer. In 2014, Bush came out of semi-official retirement to play a residency of 22 shows at the Hammersmith Apollo in London. Late last year, she released a three-disc live set from those shows, which she called Before the Dawn. The album, which online music magazine pitchfork.com gave an 8.5, was her first record since her 2011 album of new material, 50 Words for Snow.

According to Wikipedia, the Before the Dawn shows were multi-media performances that involved “standard rock music performance, dancers, puppets, shadows, maskwork, conceptual staging, 3D animation and an illusionist. Bush spent three days in a flotation tank for filmed scenes that were played during the performance and featured dialogue written by novelist David Mitchell.”

Kate Bush flying

Throughout her career, Bush has provided almost as much visual inspiration as musical.

While we don’t think the dancers at this Sunday’s performance will have undergone such preparation, we can expect performers like Burgundy Brixx, Sister Madly, Lace Cadet, and Trixie Hobbitses, among others, to rise to the occasion. Guest vocalists, including Louise Burns, Sasja Smolders and Lisa Marie Ricketts, will accompany the Kitty Nights live band.

Doors are at 8 p.m, show at 9. Tickets are $12 advance at kittynights.com and $15 at the door. VIP Reserved Table seating is available for an additional cost.

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