Presented by Night Owl Shows, starring Cleopatra Higgins

Review by Josie Rose Embleton

Taking on one of the most legendary and most incredible voices of all time is no easy task, but Cleopatra Higgins and her band effortlessly surpass expectations in this glorious celebration of musical icon, Whitney Houston.

Rich with passion, energy and pure joy, the show brings to life the spirit of her music as the audience is reminded of Houston’s story, ‘carrying the light’ from her torch with them. As one of the most influential artists in musical history, breaking societal boundaries with her soaring record sales, number-one hits and countless awards, Night Owl Shows undoubtedly do her legacy justice.

Atmospherically, the show is electric. Brought to their feet, the crowd begins dancing along to the soul-lifting hit ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’, as the joyfulness of Higgins and her band is spread. The nostalgia is perpetuated as we continue to hear The ‘Queen of the Night’s’ 90s classics from ‘The Bodyguard’, where Higgins sings to absolute perfection the great ‘I Have Nothing’. The show closes with the touching immortal track ‘I Will Always Love You’, and there was simply not a dry eye in the house.

Particularly noteworthy, however, is the love and enjoyment the musicians have for Houston and her music which makes for a feeling of communal respect and appreciation in the room. Each band member carried the same passion along with their instrument, whether it be on the vocals, keys, guitar, or drums, to bring Houston’s music to life in absolute harmony.

Producing a plethora of musical productions this fringe pays homage to several other notable names in musical stardom, Night Owl Shows are certainly not ones to miss. The Whitney Houston Story in a word, is an impeccable tribute to one of the greatest voices that the world will always love.