REVIEW: Indigo Girls With The Philadelphia Youth Orchestra—and a House Full of A-Gays

Last night at the Kimmel Center, the Indigo Girls performed alongside The Philadelphia Youth Orchestra—the first time they’d ever played with such an ensemble. If that wasn’t exciting enough, there was a wedding ceremony in the fifth row, and it was singer Amy Ray’s birthday.

It’s also worth noting that the house was packed to the brim with local A-gays—everyone from State Rep. Brian Sims and his boyfriend Brandon McMullin to William Way Executive Director Christopher Bartlett and Nellie Fitzpatrick, director of the Mayor’s Office of LGBT Affairs. Check out this epic Oscar-like selfie they snapped during the performance:

With so many competing elements, it was the teamup between the Indigo Girls and PYO that won the night. PYO’s classical accompaniment took the duo’s already beloved sound to a whole new level. PYO’s contribution complemented the familiar sound and lyrics, giving an oh-so-fresh twist to a set of songs we’ve been singing along to for decades.

My favorite highlight of the evening was when PYO struck up the first few notes to “Galileo.” Before the Indigo Girls even had a chance to chime in, a sea of people stood up in their seats and began singing along. Women were dancing in the aisles and crooning as if they were transported back to their favorite Lilith Fair performance. It was quite a beautiful moment to see so many smiling faces and lit-up eyes throughout the performance. This was my first time seeing the Indigo Girls, but it definitely won’t be my last. I also look forward to seeing what The Philadelphia Youth Orchestra has up their sleeves in the coming months. You can click here to see their upcoming events.