Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” farewell tour culminated in a spectacular performance at Chicago’s United Center, marking her return to arena stages after a 37-year hiatus. The 71-year-old icon, whose career boasts over 50 million units sold, including the globally influential debut album “She’s So Unusual,” delivered a captivating two-hour set that seamlessly blended music, storytelling, and social activism. This final arena show served as a grand celebration of Lauper’s enduring legacy and her ongoing commitment to championing human rights, especially for women. Lauper, visibly moved by the enthusiastic Chicago crowd, declared the night a gift to her fans and a testament to her desire to “go big” for her final arena performance of the tour.
The performance itself was a dynamic journey through Lauper’s extensive catalog, beginning with the vibrant “She Bop,” punctuated by a shower of rainbow confetti. She then launched into a series of hits, including “The Goonies ‘R’ Good Enough,” paying homage to the 1980s wrestling personalities who played a pivotal role in her early MTV success. Lauper’s setlist weaved seamlessly through various musical influences, featuring a rendition of Prince’s “When You Were Mine” and a spirited take on Wanda Jackson’s “Funnel of Love,” showcasing her versatility and respect for fellow artists. The energy remained high with the infectious “Iko Iko,” which saw Lauper return to the stage with a washboard, adding a playful touch to the performance. The show was not merely a concert, but a vibrant spectacle of music and visuals, further enhanced by Lauper’s dynamic stage presence and playful banter with the audience.
Throughout the evening, Lauper shared personal anecdotes, offering insights into the inspiration behind her songs. She discussed “Sally’s Pigeons,” co-written with Mary Chapin Carpenter, highlighting the importance of women’s autonomy and lamenting the current political climate where reproductive rights are increasingly under attack. She also touched on the history of women’s financial independence, referencing the Equal Credit Opportunity Act of 1974, emphasizing how recent these hard-won rights are. Her performance of “I Drove All Night,” a song about female empowerment and independence, further underscored this theme. This blend of music and social commentary added a layer of depth to the performance, demonstrating Lauper’s continued relevance and her use of her platform to advocate for social justice.
The emotional core of the evening resided in Lauper’s powerful vocals and her genuine connection with the audience. She addressed the crowd with warmth and humor, sharing self-deprecating jokes and engaging in playful banter. Her vulnerability shone through, particularly when she spoke about the personal struggles that inspired her songwriting. The Chicago audience responded with fervent enthusiasm, rising to their feet throughout the show. The reciprocal energy between performer and audience created a palpable sense of shared celebration and connection. Lauper acknowledged the mutual love between herself and the Chicago audience, albeit in her characteristically humorous and self-aware manner.
The show reached a poignant pinnacle with the performance of “Time After Time,” one of Lauper’s signature hits. Encouraging fans to light up the arena with their phones, she transformed the iconic song into a communal singalong, a shared moment of joy and nostalgia. Lauper further solidified her connection with the audience by venturing into the crowd during “Shine,” greeting fans as she made her way to a smaller stage, blurring the lines between performer and audience and creating an intimate, unforgettable experience. The visual spectacle continued with her interpretive dance beneath a brightly colored cloth held aloft by fans, adding an artistic and engaging element to the performance.
The evening concluded with a vibrant performance of “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” featuring opening act Gayle. Dressed in a striking red and white ensemble, Lauper, inspired by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, reiterated her commitment to fundamental human rights, particularly for women, echoing the message of empowerment that has defined her career. Gayle, who had warmed up the crowd with a half-hour set of her own hits, including the viral sensation “ABCDEFU,” joined Lauper for the final song, a fitting culmination of a night celebrating female artistry and empowerment. Lauper’s final message of the night reinforced the themes of equality and human rights that underscored her entire performance.
Lauper’s farewell arena tour performance in Chicago was more than just a concert; it was a vibrant celebration of her four-decade career, a testament to her musical talent, and a platform for her ongoing social activism. The show was a compelling blend of music, personal stories, and social commentary, delivered with Lauper’s characteristic energy, humor, and genuine connection with her audience. The evening resonated with themes of female empowerment, human rights, and the enduring power of music to connect and inspire. It was a fitting send-off for Lauper’s arena touring chapter, leaving a lasting impression on the enthusiastic Chicago crowd.
