Madonna made a sensational debut in the UAE with her first-ever performance in the Gulf, held at the du Arena in Abu Dhabi. Despite a nearly two-hour delay, the pop icon captivated the audience of over 22,000 fans with an extravagant and unforgettable show.
Key Takeaways
- Madonna’s first performance in the Gulf took place at the du Arena in Abu Dhabi.
- The concert featured elaborate stage setups, controversial themes, and high-energy performances.
- Despite a late start, the show was well-received by the majority of the audience.
A Grand Entrance
The gates opened at 7 PM, but it wasn’t until 10:40 PM that the lights dimmed and the show began. The stage was set with chiming church bells and a large censer, creating an atmosphere of anticipation. Dancers dressed in monk cloaks appeared against the backdrop of a giant crucifix, setting the tone for what was to come.
Madonna, 53, made her entrance in black tights and a crown, launching into "Girl Gone Wild" from her new album MDNA. Topless male dancers in high heels joined her, adding to the spectacle.
Overcoming the Heat
With temperatures soaring to 36° Celsius inside the newly refurbished arena, the heat was a challenge. Madonna acknowledged the sweltering conditions, joking, "It’s too damn hot, but we’re going to have fun anyway." Despite the discomfort, the audience’s excitement was palpable.
A Controversial Performance
The show featured a massive transforming stage and a variety of provocative elements. Violent images, religious iconography, and sexy dance moves were all part of the performance. The concert also included potentially contentious audio-visual content, never before seen in a UAE public performance.
Audience Reactions
For many, the show exceeded expectations. Adela Aveco, a Puerto Rican-American, said, "Amazing how I woke up this morning pretty fresh. Madonna gives me energy." American Abu Dhabi resident Sarah Omolewu praised the show, saying, "She had phenomenal energy and kept the crowds rocking the whole time."
However, not everyone was pleased. Some fans were frustrated by the late start and the heat. Mandii Atterman, who attended with her 78-year-old mother, left before the show began, citing the late hour as a concern.
Family Cameos
The performance also featured appearances by Madonna’s 11-year-old son Rocco and her boyfriend Brahim Zaibat, who danced with her during a rendition of her 1992 song "Erotica." However, her 15-year-old daughter Lourdes, who was highly anticipated, did not make an appearance.
A Nod to Lady Gaga
One of the highlights of the evening was Madonna’s rendition of Lady Gaga’s hit "Born This Way," which she incorporated into her song "Express Yourself." Critics have noted the similarities between the two songs, and Madonna followed the mash-up with "She’s Not Me," seemingly taking a dig at the younger star.
Mixed Reviews
While many fans were thrilled by the performance, others felt short-changed. Julia Stellington, who attended with friends, said, "I was just expecting a few more of the really recognizable songs." Despite this, she acknowledged that Madonna’s performance was still impressive.
In summary, Madonna’s debut concert in the UAE was a night to remember, filled with high-energy performances, controversial themes, and a mix of reactions from the audience. Despite the challenges, the pop icon proved that she still has the power to captivate and entertain.
