one4review | On 04, Aug 2025

Jess Robinson, renowned for her pitch-perfect impressions, returns to the Fringe with a dazzling tribute to the music of Elton John—reimagined through the voices of iconic female singers.

Accompanied by the brilliant musical director Matthew Floyd Jones, Robinson delivers a joyous set of Elton John’s greatest hits. Each number is given a unique twist, as she expertly channels different vocalists by exaggerating their signature personas and singing styles. Her Shakira rendition of Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word is spot-on, while Kate Bush’s version of Goodbye Yellow Brick Road is nothing short of inspired. Robinson absolutely nails Barbra Streisand’s tone in I’m Still Standing, and her Billie Holiday-inspired Rocket Man is hauntingly beautiful.

Comedy weaves effortlessly through the performance. A running sketch featuring Liza Minnelli—struggling to remember lyrics as she auditions for The Lion King—is pure gold, with Robinson improvising hilariously absurd lyrics.

One of the show’s highlights is an audience-interactive moment where two volunteers choose 20 photos of famous female personalities. Robinson then performs Don’t Go Breaking My Heart, switching seamlessly between impersonations of each one—from Angela Rayner to Lorraine Kelly. Even if you’re seated at the back and can’t see the pictures, her impressions are so vivid, you’ll know exactly who she’s channelling.

There’s something for everyone in this fast-paced, music genre-spanning show—from pop to classical. A standout is Robinson’s “vocal trio” performance of Sacrifice, blending Katherine Jenkins’s operatic power, Julie Andrews’s theatrical warmth, and Ariana Grande’s contemporary pop flair. In a nod to Elton John’s support for emerging artists, she also delivers a sultry Amy Winehouse take on Tiny Dancer and a moody, atmospheric Candle in the Wind in the style of Billie Eilish.

Robinson is a phenomenal performer, and the musical arrangements are superb. Where else can you get Barbra Streisand, Liza Minnelli, and Shakira all in one ticket? This cabaret show is a bargain—and a must-see at the Fringe.

 

****

Reviewed by Lynn

Assembly George Square Gardens – Piccolo

18.05 (1hr)

Until 24 Aug (not 11)