Did Kiwi fans just see the real Sia?
Singer pulls crowd into imaginary world brought to life by performance artists
Sia’s intrigue continues after her only Auckland show at Mt Smart Stadium. The Australian, who famously hides behind black and white wigs, took fans on a journey with her theatrical production involving a host of performance artists on Tuesday night.
Featuring a festival-like line-up of supporting acts, the stadium show opened with a polished set from New Zealand’s own Theia, before English pop sensation Charli XCX hit the stage. Then came an energetic performance from Danish singer MO, who had the audience on its feet and fizzing with infectious hits such as Kamikaze and Lean On.
But the mood quickly changed as a giant black curtain engulfed the stage ahead of Sia’s headline set, and the crowd fell silent in anticipation.
As the curtain was raised, the stage was sparse, with Sia standing motionless, microphone in hand. Decked out in a giant wedding cakelike dress, her face was obscured by her trademark black and white wig and an oversized cartoon-like bow.
Opening with the powerful hit Alive, her incredible vocals rang out as her elaborate costume came apart to reveal performance artist Maddie Ziegler, who rose to fame in Sia’s original Chandelier music video. Just 15, the dancer twisted and twirled in the same nude leotard and black and wig she sports in several of Sia’s videos, while Sia stood stationary.
Next, Diamonds rang out – a faultless rendition, accompanied by a simple stage set of twinkling lights and a suited, seated man.
As the hits kept rolling, each song led the audience into an imaginary world brought to life by performance artists. Much like her music videos, the live show shared the bold and vivid vision that makes Sia unique.
Overseas, some fans have been less than impressed by Sia’s artistic approach to her live act, in which she stands stationary throughout the 90-minute set as dancers and performers bring her music to life around her. But while the venue was far from full, those there appeared to appreciate the more theatrical approach which unfolded alongside chart hits such as Move Your Body, Titanium and Chandelier.
As the curtains dropped, Sia spoke to her Kiwi fans for the first time, saying simply: “I love you, thank you”. The big screen then came to life, taking the audience backstage behind Ziegler. She was greeted by cast members and their praise, then walked outside towards a changing room.
We were taken through the door and down a corridor to find Sia, face concealed behind her hairpiece, in front of a mirror — or was it?
Viewers may have received their one and only glimpse of the real Sia, unmasked and smiling, in this final parting scene.