Blue Mountains preparations are in full swing to mark 40 years since British singer Kate Bush topped the Australian and UK charts with her debut single, Wuthering Heights.
The grounds of Woodford Academy will host a mass re-enactment of the song’s iconic music video for the third year in a row on Saturday, July 14.
Self-confessed “1970s baby” Georgina Khoo is organising this year’s event, as well helping participants master Bush’s ethereal dance moves.
“One of my favourite dances growing up was Babooshka (Bush’s later 1980 hit), so I’m a Kate Bush fan,” said the choreographer from Shine Wentworth Falls Dance School.
Ms Khoo will be holding rehearsals at the dance school in Holy Trinity Church, Armstrong Street, Wentworth Falls on July 4 and 11 from 6-7pm.
“Rehearsals are a lot of fun, particularly because we’re singing – there’s really high warbling!” she said.
But people who can’t attend rehearsals shouldn’t be deterred.
“Anybody can turn up on the day and do a quick half an hour rehearsal beforehand,” said Ms Khoo, who has adapted the choreography to suit all ages and ability levels.
The Woodford event is open to everyone from women, men, children and even dogs. “It’s so Mountains!” said Ms Khoo.
Woodford Reserve is one of 12 places in Australia hosting The Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever out of 28 events globally. A rehearsal will be held at 12.30pm on the day before the official performance at 1pm. A gold coin donation is appreciated to help cover costs.
An unlikely hit based on Emily Bronte’s 1847 novel of the same name, Wuthering Heights launched Bush’s career at just 19. She famously fought her record label to have it released as the first single off her debut album, The Kick Inside. It was a move that paid off: Wuthering Heights was the first UK number one hit written and performed by a woman.
As well as marking the song’s 40th anniversary, this year’s event will be a double celebration – Kate Bush turns 60 only weeks later on July 30, a birthday she shares with the equally enigmatic Emily Bronte.
For more details visit the Facebook page or call Georgina Khoo on 0416 111 340.
