The first of two sold-out shows at St Mary’s Stadium saw Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Howard Donald bring their revived Circus Live production to the south coast, delivering more than two hours of hits backed by what may be the most impressive stage production the stadium has hosted.
Before Take That took to the stage, The Script did an excellent job warming up the crowd. Frontman Danny O’Donoghue constantly interacted with supporters, with one memorable moment seeing him Facetime an audience member’s ex-partner and perform a song directly to him for several minutes.
By the time Take That emerged, St Mary’s was packed. Three stands were full, the pitch was crowded and there was a clear sense that the audience was fully invested in the night.
Take That ’The Circus Live’ show at St Mary’s Stadium. (Image: Stuart Martin)
The show itself was enormous. Staying true to the original 2009 production, Take That arrived via a giant 30-foot mechanical elephant before making their way to the main stage. Alongside the band was a cast of 40 dancers, acrobats, aerialists, stiltwalkers, clowns and fire breathers.
The circus theme could easily have overshadowed the music, but it never did. Greatest Day, Relight My Fire and Rule The World were among the highlights as the crowd sang along throughout, while newer track You’re A Superstar also featured.
The production was the star of the show. Giant inflatables, pyrotechnics, hot air balloons, trapeze artists and elaborate costumes combined to create a genuine spectacle without ever feeling over the top.
Take That ’The Circus Live’ show at St Mary’s Stadium. (Image: Stuart Martin)
Just as importantly, the concert highlighted what a positive venue St Mary’s can be outside football. The experience of attending a major gig at the stadium was a good one and events like these provide an additional source of income for Southampton FC, money which can only help the club’s ambitions on the pitch.
As Take That closed with Rule The World beneath a sea of lights, it was hard to argue with the thousands leaving St Mary’s having witnessed something special.