EDINBURGH 2015 - BWW Reviews: BETTE MIDLER..AND ME, Gilded Balloon, August 15 2015

Bette Midler..and Me is a tribute to Bette Midler and the impact she has had on performer Sue Kelvin's life and career. Kelvin begins the performance by talking about the point in her life when she discovered Midler and launches into Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.

Linking Midler's life story with her own, we are taken through songs that she has covered alongside her career history. The narrative of Midler's life and career is littered with innuendo which reflects Midler's own personal style of humour. While this show is mainly about Midler and Kelvin, huge credit has to go to Alex Young. Credited as 'supporting' Kelvin, Young has huge stage presence and is essential to the performance.

My favourite part of the show is when they delve into Bette Midler's Hollywood career. The Rose is undoubtedly the most stunning musical number performed. Kelvin and Young ask for a show of hands as to who hasn't seen Beaches and several are raised (really?!) so they perform a three-minute rundown of the plot - complete with puppets.

I had a couple of issues with the venue for the performance. During the more emotional moments there was noise from the adjoining room which was a little distracting. After another show running late, our start time was delayed by 15 minutes which can be crucial for people planning back to back shows.

Bette Midler..and Me is a fantastic tribute that taught me a lot more about the legend that is Bette Midler - and has left me with an overwhelming urge to go home and watch Beaches!

Ticket information for Bette Midler..and Me is available on the edfringe website.

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