Rex Orange County Returns to Chicago for Residency at Auditorium Theatre

chicago, illinois - october 4, 2024

Fans have been waiting for Rex Orange County, real name Alexander O’Connor, to embark on a theater tour. After years of anticipation, it finally happened. Fittingly named the “Finally” tour, he brought the energy the crowd deserved to the Auditorium Theatre on October 4, 2024.

The show began with an intimate set in the corner, where O’Connor sat on an exam table as a “doctor” joined him on stage. He opened with “Alexander,” a melodramatic start featuring lyrics mimicking a conversation in a doctor’s office. This led into his song “Therapy” as he made his way through the crowd before returning to the stage for “Guitar Song.”

The first three songs are pivotal for musicians, as they establish a connection with the audience and set the tone for the show. O’Connor used these songs to bring the crowd up to speed on what he has experienced over the past few years.

Before this tour, O’Connor faced a difficult period, having been accused of sexually assaulting a woman six times. The allegations surfaced in October 2022 while he was touring in Australia and New Zealand. After months of denying any wrongdoing, the charges were dropped. Despite this, his public image and personal life were deeply affected.

Taking time away from the spotlight, O’Connor channeled his emotions into his latest album, The Alexander Technique. The title refers to a chiropractic method used to relieve back pain and improve posture, a fitting metaphor for lifting the weight off his shoulders as he returns to the stage.

As the concert continued, the set revealed his full band, performing in a Japanese-style house with light wood accents. A screen behind them changed scenes throughout the show. Fans sang along to every song, a testament to their loyalty throughout O’Connor's career.

To express his gratitude, O’Connor performed a cover of "Forever Always" by Chicago native Peter Cottontale, as well as “Waiting Room,” a song he hadn’t played in years, and “Much Too Much,” which he performed live for the first time.

Toward the end of the show, O’Connor asked fans to put away their phones and cameras to be fully present for the final songs. The request lasted about half a song, as fans couldn't resist recording his performance. It didn’t seem to bother him, though—he made sure to perform with enough energy to get everyone up and dancing.