Jess Robinson: Elton Reimagined at Underbelly Boulevard Soho

★★★★★

Photo credit Ed Moore

There are tribute shows, there are impression shows, and then there is Elton Reimagined – a wonderfully inventive evening that manages to be both of those things while also being something entirely unique.

We headed to Underbelly Boulevard Soho expecting a clever take on Elton John's greatest hits. What we discovered was a dazzling showcase of talent from Jess Robinson, a performer whose extraordinary vocal ability, quick wit and natural charm held the audience in the palm of her hand from the opening number to the final encore.

The premise is delightfully simple. Elton John's songs are reimagined through the voices and styles of some of the world's most famous female artists. Yet what sounds like a clever gimmick on paper becomes something genuinely magical in performance. Robinson doesn't just imitate voices – she captures mannerisms, personalities and musical nuances with astonishing precision.

What impressed us most was how much heart there was beneath the comedy. The audience laughed throughout, but Robinson's admiration for both Elton's catalogue and the artists she portrays is evident in every performance. The result is a show that feels celebratory rather than satirical, allowing these iconic performers to shine while giving audiences a fresh perspective on songs they thought they knew.

We loved every diva who made an appearance, but several performances were genuinely unforgettable. Lady Gaga was sensational, delivering all the theatricality and vocal power one could hope for. The duet/duel between Katherine Jenkins and Julie Andrews was a hoot. Kate Bush was utterly captivating, transforming familiar Elton classics into something that ran up that hill.

Another standout was Alanis Morissette. It's easy to forget quite how unusual and technically challenging her vocal style is until you hear someone attempt it. Robinson absolutely nailed every inflection, nuance and trademark Alanis flourish with remarkable accuracy. It was one of the evening's most impressive performances and demonstrated just how accomplished she is as a vocalist.

And then there was Barbra Streisand – commanding, powerful and utterly magnificent. Robinson's portrayal was so convincing that for a few moments it was possible to forget we were watching a single performer rather than an entire cast of musical legends.

Between songs, Robinson proved herself to be every bit as entertaining. Her warm rapport with the audience, effortless storytelling and razor-sharp humour created an atmosphere that felt intimate despite the obvious scale of her talent. By the end of the evening, it felt like spending time with a very funny friend who just happens to possess one of the most versatile voices in the business.

The evening flew by and left us wanting more, which is perhaps the greatest compliment any show can receive. We were completely blown away by Jess Robinson's talent, charm, wit and amazing voice. In an era when so many productions rely on elaborate staging and technical wizardry, Elton Reimagined reminds us that a truly gifted performer is often all you need.

Underbelly Boulevard Soho deserves praise too. Comfortable, welcoming and perfectly suited to cabaret and live music, it provides an intimate setting where every seat feels close to the action. It's also a lovely place to enjoy a drink before the show or linger afterwards discussing favourite moments from the performance. Combined with a show as inventive, uplifting and brilliantly executed as Elton Reimagined, it makes for an exceptional night out in the heart of Soho.

Whether you're an Elton John devotee, a fan of great live music or simply looking for a memorable evening of entertainment, this is a show not to be missed.

A joyful, funny and hugely impressive celebration of music, brilliantly brought to life by a truly remarkable performer. 

Venue: Underbelly Boulevard Soho, London

Tour Dates: Following its acclaimed London run, Elton Reimagined continues touring across the UK, with dates in Tring, Bolton, Ventnor Fringe and a month-long run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Full details and ticket links can be found on Jess Robinson's official website.

The Edinburgh Fringe run (5–30 August) looks likely to be the biggest opportunity for readers who miss the London dates