HOUSTON, Texas (THE WASHINGTON POST) – Houston’s NRG Stadium was brimming with a new kind of energy this weekend as ‘The Beyhive’ swarmed the city for the arrival and performance of Beyoncé. This was the ‘Queen’s’ triumphant return to her hometown stage, where she performed for thousands of fans on Saturday and Sunday night on her Renaissance World Tour.
Fans arrived from all over the world, causing tickets prices in Houston to be among the most expensive on the global tour. Some paid three times more than in other cities for floor tickets. Many arrived early at the stadium, or held theme parties, dressed in chrome cowboy style. Here’s what some fans had to say in the run-up to the show.
“Beyoncé, being a fellow Virgo like myself, really encapsulates the hard work, talent and commitment to her artistry that I fell in love with. Apart from being nothing short of pure talent, she is an amazing human being that loves and respects everyone around her and that is a characteristic that sets her apart from most A-list celebrities. Lastly, I love and adore Beyoncé because time and time again she demonstrates that she doesn’t make music, she creates art that will transcend time and cultures.”
-Daniel Bautista, 25, Austin
“She creates spaces for Black, Brown, and Queer folks to celebrate ourselves. And the talent…c’mon now!”
-Trenton Rogers, 29, New York City
“She is a great performer. I don’t consider myself part of the hive, but I feel like everyone should see her perform. Denying her talent is kind of ridiculous.”
-Brittany Heckard, 30, Austin
“She radiates positivity, and her music gets me through everything.”
-Shanoi Corrodus, 24, Philadelphia
“Beyoncé is a statement within herself. Her name, her energy, her presence. She inspires me to be unapologetically my Brown self. From my unique name to my unique body. She’s the epitome of bold grace.”
-Lakota White, 27, Dallas