If you've ever seen a poster for an Elvis, Taylor Swift, Oasis or Beatles tribute and wondered exactly what to expect, you're not alone. Tribute shows have become a huge part of the UK's live entertainment scene, bringing the music of some of the world's best-known artists to theatres and venues across the country.
But what actually is a tribute show, and how is it different from simply watching a covers band?
What is a tribute show?
A tribute show is a live performance created to celebrate the music of a particular artist, band or era.
Some performers aim to recreate the appearance, voice and stage presence of the original artist as closely as possible. Others concentrate more on the music itself, using a live band, costumes, lighting and production to recreate the atmosphere of seeing those songs performed in concert.
That means two tribute shows celebrating the same artist can be quite different experiences.
Is a tribute act the same as a covers band?
Not quite.
A covers band will normally perform songs by lots of different artists, while a tribute act focuses on a particular artist or group. The entire performance can be built around their music, from the set list and costumes to the staging and visual production.
At the larger end of the scale, a modern tribute production can feel much more like a complete theatre show than a traditional covers-band gig.
Do tribute shows perform live?
Many do, although the format varies from show to show.
Some feature a full live band, while others use a combination of live vocals, musicians and professionally produced backing tracks. Certain productions also incorporate dancers, video, lighting and other theatrical elements.
There isn't one single formula. What matters is creating an entertaining live experience that celebrates the original music.
Why are tribute shows so popular?
Great songs have an extraordinary shelf life.
People still want to hear the music they grew up with, introduce it to their children or grandchildren, and experience songs that they may never have had the opportunity to hear performed by the original artist.
Tribute shows make that possible in local theatres and venues, often without audiences having to travel to a major arena or city.
They're also wonderfully communal nights out. When a room full of people knows every word of the chorus, sitting quietly becomes rather difficult.
What can you expect at a Start Events tribute show?
At Start Events, we work with a growing range of live productions celebrating some of the biggest artists and songs in popular music.
You can experience the music of Elvis Presley with Elvis from Memphis to Vegas, celebrate the Fab Four with The Beatles Experience, or enjoy the songs of Taylor Swift with Shake It Off Stage.
Our shows also celebrate the music of Ed Sheeran, Oasis, Elton John, Michael Jackson, Buddy Holly, and The Police and Sting, while Nothing But A Good Time brings together some of rock's biggest anthems in one live show.
The format varies between productions, but the aim is the same: a professionally presented live show and a great night out.
Some performances are seated theatre shows. Others are standing events where singing and dancing are very much part of the evening. Individual event pages will tell you what to expect before you book.
Are tribute shows suitable for all ages?
That depends on the individual production and venue.
Many tribute shows attract several generations of the same family, particularly shows celebrating artists whose music has found new audiences over the years. Other performances are designed more specifically as an evening concert experience.
It's always worth checking the information for the individual event and the venue's own age restrictions before booking.
Where can I see a tribute show?
Start Events presents live shows at theatres and venues across the UK, with new dates being added throughout the year.
Whether you want to relive the music of a legendary artist, discover a show celebrating one of today's biggest stars or simply enjoy a night of songs you already know by heart, there's probably a stage somewhere getting ready to play them very loudly.
Find your next tribute show
Browse our upcoming shows and find your next great night out.