Kylie Launches U.S. Tour

For years Minogue has been wowing audiences all over the world with her elaborate stage presentations, choreography and songs. That is, everywhere but in America.

But the U.S. market is a hard nut to crack.  Last night Minogue kicked off her first tour on these shores by playing Oakland’s Fox Theater, which is much smaller than the usual arena-size venues the popster usually plays.

We’ve put together a few choice excerpts from reviews detailing Minogue’s first night, as well as a few photos that should be easy on the eyes. Enjoy!

From Jim Harrington at the Oakland Tribune:

“It was nothing short of gigantic, an over-the-top spectacle that featured enormous props, a killer laser-light show, wild theatrical elements, artfully choreographed dance routines and a Cher-worthy closet full of pricey costumes. It was a stadium-sized event, put on for the 2,800 people who turned out at the Fox Theater in Oakland.

“What we didn’t see, however, was any illustration as to why Minogue is one of the world’s biggest pop stars – and that’s the one thing she really needs to accomplish with her debut tour on these shores.”

From Alexandria Sage at Reuters:

“To a constantly shifting set of images projected on a video backdrop – including some of well-chiseled men in the shower and others working out with gym equipment – Minogue and her scantily-clad dancers made their way through a series of hits.

“The singer delivered the sassy fashion she is known for, sporting a host of leg-baring outfits that included silver tunics, black boots, a Nautical cap and a sparkly black leotard.”

From Ashley Harrell at SF Weekly

“The next hour and half feels like five, as she and her dancers change into many tacky costumes (at one point they are actually dressed in cheerleading costumes with K’s on the chest) and Kylie plows through a combination of hits and duds. In a glitzy leotard and an ostentatious, feathery shawl, she performs Come Into My World,’ and although the song is recognizable, it just doesn’t sound right. Too loud. Too loose. There’s just not a lot of vitality in the performance.”

But opinons are like a particular body part south of the waist –  everyone has one. What matters is what you think.  Were you at Kylie’s first night in Oakland? Feel free to leave a few thoughts of your own in the comment thread below.