UNCASVILLE, Conn. - Halsey birthed her Hopeless Fountain Kingdom world tour on her birthday, Sept. 29, popping champagne and partying with her sold-out crowd. The newly 23-year-old set the tone for a powerfully artistic and energetically charged tour.
While Northeastern fans got their Halsey fix last weekend, I will be not-so-patiently awaiting her performance closer to home in Orlando, Florida. Until then, I DM'd concert-goers to get their reactions. Take notes:
The concert was ELECTRIC, says 20-year-old Victoria. "You could just feel the vibrations from the music through your body and her stage set up was like nothing I've ever seen!"
Abstract visuals, illuminated staircases, pyrotechnics and fog effects all blended together in this sensory packed concert. The stage set undoubtedly contributed to the edgy mood of the night with added support from backup dancer @HEYTEETEE. These elements were coordinated to complement, but not overpower Halsey's talents.
"Her 'Lie' performance was mind-blowing. I didn't expect the stage to have water on it or get splashed," recounts Victoria (@HEAVVENNHIDING). "The whole crowd around me was vibing with the music and with Halsey, she has a way of drawing her fans into her."
By watching interviews or past concerts, one can tell that Halsey has a magnetic quality that transcends beyond her lyrics. The way she carries herself so freely, without censoring herself shows her authenticity-which fans appreciate and relate to. She connects with her fans on and off the stage.
Chris, who goes by @newyorksoulptii on Twitter, shared his special meet and greet experience with me. He described the simple gesture of Halsey pressing his hand against her heart, to feel her heart racing from their conversation. Chris' words of admiration clearly struck a chord in her. It's nice to know at least one music artist is invested in what their fans have to say.
Fans and lovers turned out to support Halsey's opening night. Halsey's bae, G-Easy, made a special appearance and conducted the audience to sing happy birthday. He said some cute "I love you's" to Halsey, accompanied by some heartfelt expletives.
"They looked very happy together," Chris mentioned.
The night ended shortly after Halsey showered the audience with champagne and treated fans to an encore.
Let it be known that many fans traveled across state lines to attend #HFK opening night.
"I drove almost three hours to Connecticut and stayed overnight in a hotel," said 15-year-old Lily (@edkaspbrack). "I'm from upstate New York." But was it worth it? Absolutely.
Harry, a longstanding fan known to Halsey, Ubered to the concert. In the VIP meet and greet, Halsey was taken by surprise when she saw him.
"We took the pictures and she asked how I got there, knowing I live in New York City," said Harry (@elaborative). "When I explained I Ubered with my friends from Westport, Connecticut, she immediately cut me off to say I shouldn't be spending that kind of money, and that she would pay for my ride home."
Acts of generosity are not uncommon of Halsey.
If you're a new fan or longtime supporter of Halsey, her #HFK tour is too epic not to miss.
Returning vet, 19-year-old Ashley (@ashleyalfiero), attended Halsey's Bandlands tour at the same venue-Mohegan Sun-in 2016. She knew another tour with Halsey's name on it would be just as incredible. Ashley epitomized the Hopeless Fountain Kingdom in one word: "Breathtaking."
Halsey, well done.
Utmost gratitude to Ashley, Chris, Harry, Lily and Victoria for sharing their unique experiences with this aspiring journalist and fellow fan. Cheers to you.
Halsey, in the event you are reading this, know one thing: You are the only person who can rock a blinged-out Slenderman mask and still look attractive. Thanks for the Halloween idea.
Hopeless Fountain Kingdom is about to take over the world.
The countdown to October 22 begins.
