Few artists have ever come close to equaling the talents of the mighty Kate Bush – although many have tried to imitate her over the years. One of the most amusing instances of such imitation came courtesy of comedian Noel Fielding in 2011, who performed a humorous tribute to Bush’s Wuthering Heights – and in particular the choreography Bush performs in the song’s video – for Comic Relief.
Fielding certainly gave his all to the performance, throwing himself into the theatrical dance moves and donning exactly the same dress Bush wore in the original music video. How the comedian manages to keep a straight face during some of the moves, we can’t imagine; at one point, he is rolling on the floor and cartwheeling across the stage, yet his expression remains deadly serious.
The video has over two million views on YouTube alone, along with plenty of comments from fans of Fielding and Bush alike. “I love how it’s supposed to be funny but it’s really, really endearing,” said one fan, referencing how the performance seemed like a heartfelt tribute to Bush as opposed to a simple send-up.
Of course, Fielding wasn’t the only celebrity who took part in the Comic Relief dancing event. Another notable performance came courtesy of fellow comedian Robert Webb, who took on ‘Flashdance…What a Feeling’ from the film Flashdance while dressed in the iconic leotard and wig worn by the film’s lead character Alex Owens (played by Jennifer Beals).
But whilst many other celebrities put their best foot forward for the Comic Relief dance event, our favorite celebrity to take on the challenge has to be Noel Fielding and his hilarious interpretation of Kate Bush’s ‘Wuthering Heights’. In fact, we have no doubt that if Kate herself watched the performance, she would instantly become a fan too.
Noel Fielding’s Comic Relief take on Kate Bush’s Wuthering Heights is as uproarious as it is affectionate — a loving pastiche that doubles as a brilliant tribute. If you want to watch the performance or learn more about the artists and context, check the useful links below to discover more.