Halifax’s historic The Piece Hall transformed into a vibrant stage for an unforgettable night of music, headlined by Irish pop icons The Corrs, with Australian star Natalie Imbruglia as their stellar support act. Bathed in the glow of a perfect summer sunset, the courtyard buzzed with anticipation as fans gathered to relive the magic of two acts whose hits defined the late ‘90s and early 2000s.
Natalie Imbruglia kicked off the evening just after 7:40 PM, striding onto the stage with confidence and charisma. Dressed in a vibrant outfit that matched her energy, she wasted no time winning over the crowd.
Her set was a nostalgic journey through her catalog, blending tracks from her 2021 album Firebird—like the uplifting “Build It Better”—with crowd-pleasers from her debut Left of the Middle. Hits like “Wrong Impression,” “Shiver,” and “Big Mistake” had the audience swaying, but it was her iconic cover of “Torn” that ignited the courtyard. The sing-along was deafening, with Imbruglia’s voice soaring effortlessly, proving why she remains a beloved figure in pop. Her set, lasting just over 30 minutes, was tight and engaging, setting the perfect tone for the night. As a self-professed Corrs fan, she reportedly stayed to watch the headliners, adding a touch of camaraderie to the evening.
Photo Copyright © Stephen Farrell
Just after 8:45 PM, The Corrs—siblings Andrea, Sharon, Caroline, and Jim—took the stage to a roaring welcome, launching into “Only When I Sleep” from their seminal album Talk on Corners. Andrea Corr’s opening words, “Good evening Halifax! What a beautiful place to play on a beautiful summer evening. Let’s have an epic night together,” set the tone for a performance brimming with Celtic energy and heartfelt connection.
The band, still boasting their original lineup, delivered a masterclass in blending pop-rock with traditional Irish influences. Andrea’s pitch-perfect vocals and tin whistle, Sharon’s soaring violin, Caroline’s dynamic drumming, and Jim’s steady guitar work created a sound that was both polished and deeply emotive. The setlist was a love letter to fans, packed with hits like “Give Me a Reason,” “Summer Sunshine,” and “What Can I Do,” which sparked a massive sing-along that echoed through the courtyard. The crowd’s enthusiasm was infectious, with some attempting playful Riverdance moves during the band’s rousing instrumental interludes, like “Joy of Life.”
Standout moments included their poignant cover of Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams,” a nod to their Best of The Corrs reissue, and the anthemic “So Young,” which had the audience dancing under the stars. Lesser-known tracks like “I Never Loved You Anyway” and “Ellis Island” showcased the band’s depth, while “Runaway” and “Breathless” brought the house down with their timeless appeal. The Corrs’ ability to weave Irish fiddle breakdowns, flutes, and bodhran rhythms into their pop hits kept the performance fresh and vibrant, reminding everyone why they’ve sold over 40 million albums worldwide.
The Piece Hall’s unique setting amplified the magic of the night. Its historic architecture and open-air ambiance complemented the band’s Celtic roots, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere.
Photo Copyright © Stephen Farrell
The set leaned heavily on ‘90s and early 2000s material, but for a crowd relishing nostalgia, this was hardly a complaint. The Corrs’ joy was palpable—Andrea danced across the stage, bantering with the crowd, while Caroline’s drum solos and Sharon’s violin riffs earned thunderous applause. The band’s chemistry, honed over decades, made the performance feel like a family celebration shared with thousands.
Natalie Imbruglia’s vibrant opening and The Corrs’ masterful headline set made this a night to remember at The Piece Hall. It was a perfect blend of nostalgia, musicianship, and summer vibes, leaving fans buzzing as they spilled out into Halifax’s streets. As Andrea Corr promised, it was indeed an epic night.
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