Brendon Urie’s San Diego stop on Panic At The Disco’s Pray for the Wicked Tour was not just an explosive show, but a destination for devoted fans from afar.
We spoke to people who travelled to the San Diego Show from Camarillo in Ventura County, Fresno, and even a family of four who came from Montana so that their 13-year old daughter could see Panic! Make no mistake though — we were truly surprised at the demographics of the audience. Everyone from young kids to big burly guys to great-grandmothers were all fully invested in this epic night.
Panic! at the Disco
Urie’s skills and showmanship were on full display with his epic drum solo and the white grand piano that he played as it floated on an ethereal glowing disc around the entire arena. This entire spectacular encompassed a 28-song set!
A rainbow-fabulous LGBTQ-embracing vignette of words and music was launched by “Girls/Girls/Boys.” Fans wore and carried colorful prideful clothing, accessories, and actual flags, including some of their Pride, Trans, and Pan (and more!) flags were fashioned into long capes. This emotional part of the show included lights, visuals, and an awesome speech of encouragement, inclusion and acceptance. To that end, Urie has launched the Highest Hopes Foundation to support those who need a voice. One dollar from each of the US Tour ticket sales went to the foundation.
Playing the track ‘Say Amen (Saturday Night)’ from the Pray from the Wicked Album, Urie pointed out that we were catching the show on a Saturday night. An uncontrollable reflex struck, and the audience was all dancing too.
Appearing and disappearing throughout the arena and playing several instruments, Urie gifted us with the unexpected. When he popped down to the floor-level seating area of the Arena, many were overwhelmed with tears.
Urie was humbled as he reminisced about his memories of playing the side stage of SOMA, a mere 500-capacity room next door to the arena.
Selling out at Panic’s other Southern California big arena tour stops including LA and Anaheim, we were very fortunate that Panic! included a San Diego stop. Brendon Urie and Panic! At The Disco’s Pray for the Wicked show flew high, as did we.