Words by Quinn Pomering
Chappell Roan’s Super Graphic Spectacular: The Start of a Better Future
Chappell Roan’s Super Graphic Spectacular was an incredibly unique and unbelievably successful charity concert experience. Through this event, Roan managed to raise two million dollars for her organization, the Midwest Princess Project, dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Beyond money raised, the event fostered a uniquely accepting community in which all attendees seemed as though they were able to be fully themselves. Her fans showed up dressed to the 9’s and made an effort to reach out to others and make friends with strangers, because of the common causes they all support.
The day began with a block party with activations, themed photo opportunities, drag queens, food and beverages, and non-profit organization booths. This size of the event made this feel significantly more manageable than a larger festival would have. The Shrine Auditorium has a 7,000 person maximum occupancy, making for a small, intimate show with Roan, who is a relatively large artist to be playing such a venue. The evening portion of the Block Party was exclusively for people with tickets to the concert, meaning lines for activities were short and manageable. The activities themselves were fun: free wigs to wear and take home, a MAC brand activation where fans could try Roan’s makeup line, a small stage with local DJ’s, drag queens, comedians, and magicians, etc. The concert itself consisted of five opening acts, from drag queens to musicians, each performing 1-3 numbers over the span of an hour, and Caleb Hearon hosting to tie it all together. Every detail was thought out, making the environment feel so inclusive; the variety of these performances went very well with the goal of representation and respect for all kinds of people that the event focused on so much.
The event felt like the start to a new way for artists to use their platforms for good. It didn’t feel like a cash grab, the majority of the activities throughout were included, and yet it still managed to raise a life changing amount of money. It gave a stage to performers of all sizes and all genres, making room for artists of all kinds in such a competitive industry.
Graphics by Misha Spice
