Concert Review with PHOTOS: Bruno Mars

By Louisa Tipene Opetaia

Artist: Bruno Mars

Date / Venue: Tuesday February 27th, 2018: Spark Arena, Auckland

Bruno Mars is back in Auckland for four sold-out shows at Spark Arena. The ultimate entertainer, Bruno does it all –sings, dances, and plays to the crowd.

The show is appropriate for all ages and lots of families came to see Bruno do what he does best, put on a show! Wear your dancing shoes and be prepared to work up a sweat. He assures us, “Ladies, it’s OK to sweat!” Ummm… not after all the time I took to beat my face, Mr. Mars.

Bruno had us all on our feet, “Drippin' in finesse” with his opening number. His hit single, Finesse, without Cardi B’s unique voice and style was so full of energy that we barely noticed her absence.

Bruno’s performance features an impressive light show, set changes, props, fireworks and gold confetti that showers 24 Karat Magic over all in attendance. Not only is Bruno the ultimate performer, his band are also multi-talented. His brass players sing and dance – easily jumping in and out of choreography with Bruno in between sax, trumpet and trombone duties. While Bruno has been known to play a variety of instruments in past shows, this tour he sticks to the guitar and rocks out during the fast numbers.

When it comes time to slow it down, Bruno’s vocals over the sound of a piano reminds us just how versatile his voice is. He hits the high notes with ease, reminding us of our lost loves during his soulful rendition of When I Was Your Man.

He has so many hits, his 1.5 hour show flies by leaving you feeling energised and empowered. When Bruno Mars looks your way and sings, “Girl you’re amazing, just the way you are” – you really believe it.

--- Tip: If you have tickets to the remaining shows, come on time to see Bruno’s support act, former You Tube singing sensation Dua Lipa. Fresh from winning the Breakthrough Act and Female Solo Artist at the recent Brit Awards, this is our first look at Dua Lipa in NZ. Don’t miss hearing her belt out her global hit New Rules. She is a stunning star on the rise.