Words: Haneul Lee

4 Stars

RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Kate Butch takes to the stage with her uproarious cabaret comedy Wuthering Shites, featuring a jukebox musical within the show titled Bush!—which she describes as “if Mamma Mia! had a nervous breakdown.” The fictional musical revolves around her imaginary friend Cathy, incorporating the iconic songs of Kate Bush, all while Butch drops small anecdotes about her roots. Even if you’re not a devoted follower of RuPaul’s Drag Race or Kate Bush, Butch’s charm and quick wit make this show a thoroughly entertaining experience.

From the start, Kate Butch engages the audience with high energy, seamlessly involving them in the madness. She ropes in (sometimes unwilling) audience members to portray characters in Cathy’s life, including a priest, a ghostly father, and a cheating lover named James. These spontaneous interactions create a sense of delightful unpredictability, with Butch’s razor-sharp improvisation turning even the
most reluctant participants into comedy gold. Whether dealing with latecomers, a faulty mic, or ad-libbing around the audience’s responses, Butch’s comedic timing is impeccable. The humour feels impromptu, yet it’s clear this chaotic energy is by design.

The music in Wuthering Shites is another standout. Butch’s deep, powerful voice does justice to Kate Bush’s eclectic hits, effortlessly weaving the songs into the narrative of the fictional musical Bush! The show culminates in a rousing rendition of Wuthering Heights, where even those unfamiliar with the song are encouraged to join in—an experience as joyful as it is absurd.

Kate Butch: Wuthering Shites
Pleasance Dome – Queen Dome
17:30
26 Aug