AO Finals Fest Day 2
Photography by Ishani Buff
You know those summer tunes you usually hear on the radio while you’re driving to the Australian Open? Imagine hearing them live with your favourite musicians right in front of you during your tennis experience. Appearances of talented musicians including Ruel, DMA’s, The Jungle Giants, Tia Gostelow and Mell Hall had gathered around with their smash hits for an unforgettable Day Two of the Australian Open Finals Festival.
John Cain Arena’s roof was open in the heart of Melbourne for an abundance of music and tennis lovers. With a beer from the Canadian Club in one hand and arms around a loved one with sunglasses on, the space was filled with nothing but happiness and joy. The hype and excitement of friends shouting out for their favourite artists and dancing in the distance felt nothing like I’d ever seen before.
Seeing familiar faces including Tia Gostelow and The Jungle Giants was a very heartwarming experience. I had witnessed both of these artists once upon a time in a smaller space but to see them fill a stadium with die-hard fans who knew nearly every lyric of their songs was an immense feeling. Balanced with slow dancing and electric vibes to the tunes of their songs, everybody felt connected in this beautiful place.
Australian sensation, Ruel was about to hit the stage. But before he could even appear, fans chanted left to right with an everlasting amount of cheer and excitement. A fan favourite for the Finals Festival, he came out amongst the smoke machines in his edge and style. Known for his heartfelt lyrics talking about love and heartbreak, it was a performance full of passion and love. Leaving tears full of happiness as he connected and touched the audience’s hearts.
The sun was starting to slowly come down in the distance, with one final performance to complete this beautiful occasion. With the perfect balance of edge and grace, DMA’s lit up the stage with their iconic songs, ‘Silver’ and ‘Life is a Game of Changing’. With a touch of lights glistening among the band and the crowd, it was the perfect way to end the night with your loved ones.
Making a mark once again at the Australian Open, the Finals Festival was nothing but perfection for a day out in the Aussie heat. With another day of artists to complete this terrific three-day event, I can’t wait to see more of this music and tennis celebration come together.