MANSFIELD, MA | New Kids on the Block proved they still have “the right stuff,” with a homecoming performance that was dynamic, loud [cue the screaming girls] and full of a shared devotion between the “kids” and their fans.
When asked if it was their first New Kids on the Block show, Ashley Surber of Newport, RI, said “Oh good God, no!” adding that what keeps her coming back is that, “They’re just so much fun. It’s the nostalgia; it’s just everything.” “It’s the sincerity of how they love their fans,” said Pamela Onges of Easton, Mass. “They’re just so genuine. It’s a really good show.”
The packed crowd at the Xfinity Center outside of Boston was filled with neon pinks and greens, many donning bright outfits that paid homage to some beloved ’80s/’90s fashions. The evening was an opportunity for some fans to relive a bit of their youth, as opener DJ Jazzy Jeff warmed them up with a dance party featuring some TV show highlights—the theme from The Fresh Prince drew a particularly excited roar from the crowd.
Paula Abdul followed with a dazzling performance of dance and song. “This is 62, folks!” Abdul said, jokingly inhaling from an oxygen tank after an impressive dance number. Her talent, enthusiasm, and humble personality shined, with her incredible dancers in support. The beautiful choreography, costumes and props only enhanced a packed 30-minute set, leaving the crowd energized for NKOTB.
Fans were on their feet, but definitely not sitting still, when New Kids on the Block took the stage as part of their Magic Summer Tour, leading off with “Magic,” a song off their newest album, Still Kids. The connection with the audience was real as New Kids brought energy, new and classic songs, and a heavy dose of nostalgia. The show was non-stop excitement with confetti and costume changes. Fans were thrilled when the artists got up-close-and-personal on five individual stages in the crowd for an intimate performance.
This year marks 40 years since the boy band from Boston formed and the proximity to home only made this performance on the nationwide tour so unique. “It’s different here,” said Donnie Wahlberg who got emotional speaking to the fans, thanking them sincerely for their decades of support. “It’s louder. It’s crazier. Even just the screams have a Boston accent. We know the love is real all over the world—but, it’s just a little different here.”
