by Roy Scopazzi
Grace Ives moves about The Independent stage like she’s in the crowd with you. As she sings her way through her wonderful new album, the lighting never spotlights her in particular, rather strobe lights light up the crowd. There’s a humility to the idea of that kind of concert where the performer is simply another person who wants to feel something to the music, and seeing her cry at the overwhelming enthusiasm and support from the crowd I can tell none of it is fake. Knowing she’s opening at some of Olivia Rodrigo’s shows is great, knowing her brand of pop will hopefully find a much larger crowd.
dance arts center on the other hand is all spotlight and performance. They weave a story about lost love and an exaggerated life story involving a baby doll, a fake call to a former lover, and a bucket load of drama. One of the most entertaining opening acts I’ve seen in a hot minute.
