Coldplay's long-awaited concert set KTSP stage on fire with exceptional performance

With an electrifying opening, legendary British rock band Coldplay returned to Hong Kong after a 16-year wait, performing the first of four concerts at Kai Tak Sports Park last night, garnering praise from attendees who described the experience as truly exceptional.

Despite a half-an-hour delay for the start of the concert, many concertgoers enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere throughout the show. 

Lawmaker Michael Tien Pauk-sun, who enjoyed the concert with his family, expressed delight at the venue's applauding and amazing sound effects and atmosphere while hoping for similar events in the city.

Lawmaker Perry Yiu Pak-leung described the overall atmosphere and stage effects as "world-class," adding that he expected a low demand for border-crossing services as some concertgoers would likely stay overnight.

However, some expressed disappointment over the absence of the iconic fireworks display in the show.

One attendee who purchased a HK$2,099 ticket mentioned that his view was blocked, adding that the sound was less impressive than that of the Hong Kong Coliseum.

Concertgoers praise the convenient transportation

To avoid the crowd, some attendees were seen leaving the venue half an hour earlier, including a fan from Zhongshan, revealing he was in a hurry to catch a direct bus back to the mainland.

As fans departed, Coldplay's songs continued to play after the concert, adding satisfaction to the audience. 

Chen, a fan from Guangzhou, praised the convenience of the city's transportation, believing the stadium could draw more international concerts to Hong Kong.

Ayma and Mauricio, who came from Peru, noted they decided to stay for four days after the concert and would return to Hong Kong for future mega events due to the spacious stadium and convenient transport.

Lines at security checkpoint

Although the concert was scheduled to begin at 8pm, multiple attendees started arriving an hour prior. 

Three entrances were opened at the security checkpoint, with some attendees voicing disappointment over the lack of clear signs guiding them to the appropriate security entrance.

Reports also indicated that only two staff members checked the concert tickets, resulting in long lines.

Lawmaker Kitson Yang Wing-kit spotted the congestion at security checks during inspection, urging the organizer to allocate more staff for future events to speed up the process. 

Early birds for prime spots

Some fans with standing tickets arrived early to secure prime spots, with one from Shenzhen -- who arrived nearly two and a half hours early -- excited to claim a front-row spot.

Another local fan arrived an hour and a half early, hoping to get a closer view of her idol, while expressing disappointment for the closed roof at the stadium.

(Phoebe Poon)