"You ARE the visual, baby" (RWT, 2023).

From the moment we entered Rogers Centre, a profound sense of unity and empowerment filled the air. The collective love, joy, and admiration for Beyoncé's music, artistry, dance skills, and intellect brought us together. As a proud member of The Hive, I often find myself transported back to the electrifying experience of the Renaissance World Tour, reliving the day through my memories and the photos that captured the diverse expressions of identity, the spirit of the Renaissance album, and the well-crafted outfits. 

The cool air and surprisingly calm energy of the room made me feel at home. Not for one second did I think to myself that I needed to cool down. My social anxiety also took a break, and I felt reasonably cozy enjoying myself in the presence of strangers, talking to people, photographing them, and even making several friends whom I run into to this day. I am grateful that I was able to be a part of The Renaissance World Tour and had the opportunity to contribute to the overall 'Visual' of the tour. My photos and interactions with other fans added to the collective experience, showing how each element from Beyoncé's music to the tour itself was an amalgamation of not only her two nights performing in Toronto, but also a moment in time that is still felt by many today. Many women, people of colour, those who are told that they are different because of their gender identities, and members of the queer community were reminded that they are valid and that they are seen through the lyrics and symbolism pulsating through sound.

With the increasing costs of concert tickets, I do not know if I will be able to experience a concert of this calibre and price again, which makes me even happier that I was able to document the experience that night. It is easy for us to find distraction through our devices, therefore it was paramount that I simultaneously enjoyed the concert with my eyes and through a camera lens. I was elated to be there with my friends, Danielle (who can be seen in photos five and six), who shared my excitement. I am grateful to my friend, Fouad (seen in the first two photos), a dedicated Beyoncé fan and a master at securing tickets to Club Renaissance. Their presence and contributions enhanced my experience, and it felt magical to be surrounded by like-minded people who all shared a similar love for Beyoncé. I will continue to find bliss reflecting on the night I can say I watched Beyoncé perform during her Renaissance World Tour.