Ariana Grande's tour shines with surprisingly emotional cracks in her popstar armour

As I settled into my seat at the O2 for Ariana Grande's Eternal Sunshine tour opening night, I couldn't help but feel a mix of anticipation and skepticism. The past few months had been dominated by endless discourse surrounding Grande's personal life, and I wondered if she would emerge on stage as a more timid, reserved singer. What I witnessed was a revelation, a performer who was cool, collected, and surprisingly vulnerable.

Grande's set list was a masterclass in balance, effortlessly hopping between her upbeat tracks and slower emotional numbers. The show was divided into five acts, each with a high-concept interlude that nodded to the Jim Carrey film that inspired the tour's name. These interludes painted a scene of Grande travelling through her own mind, memories being wiped clean, and her state of mind on full display. It was a notable step, one that left the audience in awe.

One of the most striking aspects of the show was Grande's willingness to bare her emotional scars. The interludes, in particular, were a gut-wrenching reminder of the pain she's endured, including the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing. The clear bag rule in place at the O2 made the events of that night feel all too close to home. It was a poignant moment, one that humanized Grande in a way that few popstars have managed.

Grande's performance of Positions was a highlight of the night, a timeless bop that had the crowd singing along in unison. It was evidence of her ability to craft songs that transcend the fleeting nature of pop music. Even the weaker songs, like Yes, And?, found a place in the set list, making sense in the context of the show's narrative.

As I left the O2 that night, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experience. Grande's Eternal Sunshine tour is a tour for the ages, one that showcases her growth as a performer and her willingness to take risks. It's evidence of her enduring popularity, and a reminder that even the most seemingly invincible popstars have cracks in their armour.

As I reflect on the night, I'm struck by the sense that Grande's tour is more than just a collection of songs, it's a journey through her own mind, a exploration of the pain and the joy that has defined her career. It's a tour that will leave you breathless, and maybe even a little bit changed.

The Eternal Sunshine tour is currently at the O2 in London, and will run through to September. Don't miss it.