On October 2nd, the 11,000 capacity Walmart Amphitheatre hosted singer and performer Chappell Roan for her Arkansan run of The Midwest Princess Tour, attracting a lively audience full of University of Arkansas’ students.
Abbie Ahlbridt, a freshman graphic design major, shared her excitement for the performer who claimed the night her “hometown” show.
“It is so liberating to have such a loud and queer artist here in Arkansas,” Ahlbridt said.
“Chappell Roan is showing up for all of us that can’t, and isn’t afraid of anyone.”
The performance featured many memorable moments that catered to U of A students, including when she brought out members of the Razorback Spirit Squads, Cheerleading and Dance Teams, to “call the hogs.” “The entire performance was amazing, but the highlight for me was when she called and brought out the hogs,” freshman International and Global Studies student Aya Alzufari said. “It
really showed how she really cares about her performances and the local traditions in the town she’s performing in. “ Alzufari also noted the significance of Roan’s performance for communities on campus.
“Chappell Roan performing in a conservative state like Arkansas provides hope for LGBTQ+ youth,” Alzufari said. “Though I’m not a part of the community, I’m really glad that she’s still upholding her morals and roots as well as inspiring others which I admire a lot.” The performance highlighted how the Walmart Amphitheatre can foster an artists’ ability to create connections with various communities around U of A. Chapell Roan’s concert displayed representation in the arts that other artists can continue for students to view when they perform there