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| Photos Cr.: JYP ENTERTAINMENT // Sarah Waxberg |
On February 21, global K-pop powerhouse TWICE transformed UBS Arena in Elmont, New York into a vibrant celebration of music, performance, and fan connection for the "THIS IS FOR" World Tour. The nine-member group delivered a show that was both technically impressive and emotionally engaging, proving once again why their live reputation continues to soar.
One of the night’s biggest highlights was the 360-degree stage design creating a fully immersive experience. It allowed TWICE to maximize fan interaction from every angle of the arena. The circular setup created a more intimate atmosphere despite the massive venue, with members frequently rotating positions and making eye contact with ONCE throughout the crowd.
The group performed alongside a live band, adding extra punch and richness to their already dynamic discography. The live instrumentation elevated both newer tracks and beloved classics, giving familiar songs a fresh concert energy that resonated strongly with the audience.
Notably, choreography adjustments were clearly made to suit the 360 configuration. Formations opened outward more frequently, and the members utilized extended walkways and multiple stage zones, making the performance feel fluid rather than confined.
A Setlist for Every Era
The setlist struck a satisfying balance between new releases and fan-favorite throwbacks, keeping longtime ONCE and newer fans equally engaged. Energy in the arena remained consistently high, but it reached a fever pitch during “Takedown,” when the crowd’s volume noticeably surged.
Throughout the night, each member also took the spotlight with solo stages positioned across different areas of the stage, highlighting their individual colors and performance styles. The distribution across the 360 layout ensured every section of the arena had a moment to shine with their bias.
Jihyo’s Vocal Powerhouse Moment
While TWICE thrives as a cohesive unit, Jihyo once again proved why she is often regarded as one of K-pop’s most commanding live vocalists. Her powerful, stable delivery cut cleanly through the arena, drawing some of the loudest cheers of the night.
Her stage presence felt especially commanding in the live-band setting, where her vocals had room to soar with added depth and warmth.
Playful Fan Moments
Before the final stretch of the show, TWICE leaned into their trademark playful chemistry. The members took turns shouting to compete with the crowd’s volume, turning the arena into a joyful noise battle.
The group jokingly crowned Jihyo and Jeongyeon as the loudest members, prompting them to demonstrate with enthusiastic shouts. Not to be left out, the typically softer-spoken Mina and Chaeyoung also joined in, earning warm cheers from fans.
The lighthearted segment perfectly captured TWICE’s enduring charm and their ability to keep massive venues feeling personal.
Encore Surprise — and a Sweet Twist
In a spontaneous moment, TWICE asked fans which song they wanted for the final encore. To the group’s surprise, ONCE loudly requested “Doughnut,” even singing the chorus together.
Although the members admitted they hadn’t prepared the track for this show, the moment became one of the night’s most memorable fan interactions. Instead, TWICE closed the evening with the high-spirited “BDZ,” sending the crowd home on an energetic high.
Final Thoughts
TWICE’s New York stop was a grand package of fan engagement, stage design, and live performance evolution. The combination of a live band, thoughtfully adapted choreography, and the immersive 360 stage created a concert experience that felt both grand and personal.
With ONCE’s energy unwavering from start to finish — and moments of genuine spontaneity sprinkled throughout — TWICE once again demonstrated why they remain one of K-pop’s most reliable and beloved touring acts.
Live report by @thomasma__
Edited by Ciera R.
Special thanks to JYP Entertainment and LiveNation for the opportunity.