What happens next? That’s the question awaiting the audience in Malmö Arena as Benjamin Ingrosso embarks on his very first arena tour, What Happens Next? Even before the concert begins, the sense of anticipation is palpable in the arena.
Along the edges of the stage, a countdown to showtime is displayed. Above, the tour's name is illuminated and on the screens, Benjamin appears. The clock is ticking down, indicating how much time remains until the concert starts. This gives the audience an early glimpse of him even before he steps on stage.
Once the countdown ends, a white curtain drops in front of the stage. Benjamin's silhouette can be seen behind it. Shortly after, the curtain parts and he steps forward. Now it’s time.
The stage is constructed in several layers and dominated by a large, partially transparent screen. Behind it stands the band, visible through the screen as part of the stage setting. Colors and images move across the screen and continuously transform the visual impression. This gives the stage a vibrant feel, where both Benjamin and the band are given space to shine.
The beginning is fairly calm, but the audience quickly gets involved in the concert. During “Angela,” it’s immediately clear the audience knows the song and are singing along. With “Barnasinnet,” Benjamin himself invites the crowd to join in on the chorus. He performs the song with wonderful attitude, and the audience is quick to join in.
This is also where you can tell what kind of entertainer Benjamin is. He loves being on stage and doesn't hold back. The joy is evident when the audience sings along; he receives their energy and returns it with the same enthusiasm. There’s a beautiful interaction where the audience isn’t merely spectators but a natural part of the show. Benjamin demonstrates that a concert is about more than just performing songs—the presence and engagement with the audience are just as crucial.
It is worth noting, however, that this review is based only on the concert’s first four songs. The organizer’s terms required members of the press to pay for continued presence during the performance. Such limitations are unfortunate from a journalistic perspective, as the chance to experience a full concert is essential for a complete and fair assessment. Nevertheless, this does not detract from the positive impression Benjamin and his band leave during the opening.
As you leave Malmö Arena, the audience's enthusiasm can still be heard outside. The question posed to the audience at the beginning of the evening was “What Happens Next?” After the first four songs, it is clear that Benjamin Ingrosso has much more to offer. And this is unlikely to be his last arena tour.
We look forward to returning to Benjamin Ingrosso’s musical world in November, when we plan to do a full review of his performance. If the first four songs are any indication of what's to come, there’s every reason to be excited.
