Live Review: Lady Gaga, Lady Starlight

A huge, luxurious pink curtain hung in front of the entrance to the two stages hid some of the mayhem, but the stage layout made it clear the show would be nothing short of extravagant.

Closer to the curtain was a large square area with two columns budding from the eastern and western ends, as Lady Starlight belted out grimey electronic beats to the east while a piano surrounded by artificial ice stood on the latter side.

A wonderful array of characters made up the crowd, with some of the outfits more excessive and creative than Gaga’s own costumes. Finally Lady Gaga emerged, in a Lycra leotard sporting large black wings, to the sounds of Artpop, with giant exercise balls being thrown around by back-up dancers and confetti showering everyone close to the stage.

“I missed you, did you miss me?” Gaga asked her adoring little monsters before descending into a gap in the stage and re-emerging in fishnet stockings and a tiny one-piece, one of five costume changes for the night. Giant inflatable mushrooms grew as she belted out Venus with impeccable stage presence, and from there on it was all massive hits.

“Six years ago we put out a song called Just Dance and created one of the most authentic fan groups of the new millennium.” It was hard to argue with so many committed fans screaming and crying. She switched to a huge, pink Medusa-type costume after Just Dance and Poker Face, then delivered Paparazzi and Do What U Want. She simplified things again with her tiny one-piece and an Aussie flag on her back as she read a letter from a fan and played piano while singing a slowed-down version of Born This Way that was nothing short of inspiring.

Five costumes, fans in awe, guitar and piano solos: Gaga was the complete package and one of the most unique concert experiences of recent times.