Out on the windswept moors of Grant Park, something uniquely enchanting is set to unfold on July 14. The third annual “Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever” will bring together fans of the legendary British musician Kate Bush, who will don flowing red dresses to recreate the iconic dance from her timeless music video for “Wuthering Heights.”
This global celebration, which has expanded to over 20 cities worldwide, is particularly special this year as it marks the 40th anniversary of the song, inspired by Emily Brontë’s classic novel of obsessive love. The event is free and open to the public, kicking off at 8:30 a.m. with a practice session at 9:30 a.m. The official dance will commence at 10:30 a.m., inviting participants of all ages, genders, and abilities to join in the fun.
The idea for this vibrant performance art originated with Kim Manning, a local resident and former DJ at Georgia State University’s Album 88. Manning, a devoted fan of Bush’s music, was inspired after watching various YouTube videos showcasing similar reenactments in the UK, Australia, and beyond. “Atlanta is kind of a nerdy town, and people like to dress up and be goofy,” Manning remarked. “After seeing the videos online, I thought we should try and do it here.”
Kate Bush burst onto the music scene as a teenager in 1978 with “Wuthering Heights,” and she has since released a series of avant-garde albums throughout the 80s, 90s, and 00s. Her most celebrated album, “Hounds of Love,” featured her only hit single in the US, “Running Up That Hill.” Bush’s song “This Woman’s Work” gained further recognition when it was featured in John Hughes’ film “She’s Having A Baby” and later became a hit for Maxwell. After a long hiatus from live performances, Bush made a triumphant return with a sold-out 22-night residency in London in late 2014, receiving rave reviews.
The “Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever” event first took shape in 2013 when a UK-based performance group called Shambush staged “The Ultimate Kate Bush Experience” at the Brighton Fringe Festival. This outdoor performance featured 300 participants dressed as Kate Bush, reenacting her dance from the “Wuthering Heights” music video. Inspired by this spectacle, fans in Berlin launched their own version of the event in 2016, which quickly spread to cities around the globe, from Melbourne to Montreal to Tel Aviv.
In Madison, Wisconsin, fans gathered in James Madison Park on July 16, 2016, to perform the iconic dance, marking the local edition of the global celebration. The event has since become a cherished tradition, with participants embracing the spirit of camaraderie and creativity that defines the dance.
As participants gather in their red dresses, they embody the essence of Bush’s artistry. The atmosphere is electric, with boomboxes playing “Wuthering Heights” on repeat, creating a joyful and cathartic experience. Dancers of all backgrounds come together, each adding their unique flair to the choreography, celebrating the freedom of expression that the dance represents.
The event is not just a tribute to Kate Bush; it is also a celebration of community and shared fantasy. Through the act of dancing, participants create a magical world that transcends the ordinary, inviting laughter, drama, and a sense of wonder. The choreography, while inspired by Bush’s original performance, allows for individual interpretations, encouraging dancers to find their own rhythm and style.
Many participants are also fans of Emily Brontë, whose novel serves as the foundation for Bush’s song. The emotional depth of Brontë’s “Wuthering Heights” resonates with the dancers, who channel the passionate and tumultuous spirit of the characters. Bush’s lyrics, sung from the perspective of Catherine, capture the essence of longing and desire, echoing the themes of the novel.
As the dancers twirl and leap across the park, they embody the spirit of both Bush and Brontë, creating a vibrant tapestry of movement and emotion. The red dresses symbolize not only the passion of Catherine but also the collective energy of the participants, who come together to honor the legacy of these two remarkable women.
The “Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever” is a celebration of femininity, creativity, and the power of community. It invites individuals to embrace their identities and express themselves freely, regardless of societal norms. The dance becomes a form of resistance against inhibition, allowing participants to revel in their shared love for Bush’s music and Brontë’s literature.
As the event continues to grow, it fosters a sense of inclusivity, welcoming individuals of all genders, races, and abilities. The dance serves as a reminder that art can unite people, transcending boundaries and creating a space for joy and connection.
In a world that often feels increasingly absurd, the “Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever” offers a moment of respite, a chance to celebrate the beauty of creativity and the power of community. As participants gather in their red dresses, they not only honor Kate Bush and Emily Brontë but also create a space for self-expression and shared joy.
The event is a testament to the enduring impact of Bush’s music and Brontë’s writing, reminding us of the power of art to inspire and connect us. As the dancers move together, they embody the spirit of both women, celebrating their legacies and the vibrant community that has formed around their work.
As the sun rises on July 14, the park will come alive with the sound of laughter, music, and the rustle of red fabric. Participants will gather, ready to dance, to celebrate, and to honor the timeless connection between music, literature, and the human experience.
Source: Various
