Janelle Monae's show is the epitome of live musical performance, with theatricality, dance, musicianship, vocals, and style at a whole other level. The sets (chapters) were each their own genre mashing adventure and allowed Monae to showcase her powerful voice, rhythmic vocals, penetrating raps and sublime crowd work. The talented band rocked the house with a duo of horns that brought so much life and energy throughout the night. The music was as diverse as the crowd, with the main through line being positivity, love, acceptance, joy, and excellence. At times it felt like we were witnessing the soul and spirit of Prince and James Brown channelled through Monae's smile, light, and smooth footwork.
The venue itself is as majestic as Monae, with a storied history as intriguing as the singer's influences. The staff are fantastic and very nice. However, there was an odd moment that the venue could and should address. The wheelchair seating seems to be BEHIND 8 rows of attendees, so once the crowd stood to enjoy the show and get their groove on, the people with accessibility needs had their view blocked. In fact, it was hard for me to see over the person in front of me once they stood up, so there wasn't a chance someone confined to a wheelchair would be able to view the stage below, given the sight lines. It caused a moment of real stress for all involved, as we offered to move out of our seats and behind the wheelchair aisle, only to be ushered back to our chairs to keep the aisles clear (another understandable safety precaution). We were caught between respecting the rights of someone with disabilities, and our own right to be in the seats we paid for. Massey Hall would be wise to install or institute better seating locations for those with disabilities, either in front of the crowd in the first row, or some sort of high riser that elevates them at the back. I'm sure for a regular sit down type of show or event, where audiences remain seated the entire time, the location works for all. But when it comes to a concert venue which often encourages standing and dancing, the accessible seating is anything but and only makes for an awkward and disappointing experience for everyone involved. Despite this distraction and the feelings of shame and confusion that came with it, we were able to enjoy the show and would highly recommend Janelle Monae to anyone thinking about going. It was two hours of dynamite entertainment, love, and life.