Cameras Roll on Theatrical Spectacle (Image Credits: Cdn01.justjared.com)
Inglewood, California – Lady Gaga concluded her second four-night engagement at the Kia Forum on the MAYHEM Ball Tour, with professional crews documenting every moment for an anticipated concert film.[1][2]
Cameras Roll on Theatrical Spectacle
The production team captured the residency across February 18, 19, 22, and 23, 2026. Cameramen positioned themselves onstage for intimate close-ups during the initial nights, while later performances incorporated aerial and drone shots to elevate the visuals.[1] British director Sam Wrench, known for helming Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour film and Gaga’s own Chromatica Ball special, led the effort.[3][2]
Audiences received pre-show warnings about potential pauses, which occurred frequently to ensure flawless costumes and set pieces. Gaga addressed the crowd directly during one performance. “Thank you so much for being so patient with us while we film tonight. We love you so much,” she said.[1] These interruptions highlighted the commitment to perfection, including a mid-song moment when her longtime hairstylist Frederic Aspiras adjusted her look onstage.
Setlist Evolves with L.A. Flair
The MAYHEM Ball Tour, supporting Gaga’s 2025 album of the same name, unfolds as a gothic-themed extravaganza divided into five acts plus an encore. Since the first Kia Forum run in July and August 2025, Gaga expanded the playlist with “The Dead Dance” from Wednesday’s second season and additional acoustic renditions toward the finale.[1][2]
Highlights from the February shows included slowed piano versions of “Marry the Night” and “Hair,” which moved both performer and fans to tears. Staples like “Bloody Mary,” “The Edge of Glory,” and “Dance in the Dark” anchored the energy. Each encore featured a rotating surprise song, closing with tracks such as “Americano.”[2]
Fans Navigate Filming Amid Excitement
Attendees described explosive energy from the opening notes, with chants echoing through the arena during brief halts. The three-hour shows maintained high vibrancy despite the crew’s presence, though some front-row viewers reported obstructed sightlines from equipment.[2]
Gaga connected deeply with longtime supporters, noting nearly two decades since her debut. “Some of you have seen me for almost 20 years,” she remarked, promising future performances even if on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.[2] Insiders praised the tour’s elaborate staging, positioning the film as a testament to Gaga’s enduring dominance nearly 20 years into her career.[3]
Mayhem Ball’s Massive Reach Continues
Launched July 16, 2025, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, the tour comprises 87 dates across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Oceania, concluding April 13, 2026, at Madison Square Garden.[4][5] It has grossed $275 million from 1.32 million attendees, ranking among the year’s top earners.[4]
- Upcoming stops: Atlanta, Austin, Miami, New York City, Washington D.C., Boston, and more through spring.
- Second North American leg added in 2026 due to demand.
- Concert film eyed for late 2026 streaming release following competitive bids.
The residency marked the tour’s second L.A. visit, building on sold-out summer dates.[5]
Key Takeaways
- Four Kia Forum nights fully filmed under Sam Wrench’s direction for a late 2026 release.
- Enhanced setlist with “The Dead Dance” and piano ballads deepened emotional impact.
- Tour on track to exceed 1.3 million fans, solidifying Gaga’s live dominance.
As the MAYHEM Ball marches toward its finale, this captured L.A. magic promises to extend the chaos to global screens. Which tour moment stands out most for you? Tell us in the comments.
