Chappell Roan’s Fairytale Laneway Festival Performance & Robert Irwin Surprise!

The Laneway Festival in Perth wrapped up its Australian and New Zealand run on Sunday with a standout performance from Chappell Roan, delivering a spectacle of camp, feminine energy, and meticulously crafted production. The 27-year-old artist, born Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, captivated a crowd of thousands at Arena Joondalup, solidifying her status as a rising pop powerhouse.

Fans, many sporting pink cowgirl hats, began gathering before 9pm, anticipating Roan’s set. The atmosphere was electric as the stage transformed into a gothic castle, complete with flashing lights and smoke, before Roan emerged to a roaring reception. She launched into a setlist featuring hits like “Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl,” “Femininomenon,” and “After Midnight.”

Roan’s presentation was a key element of the performance. Her Elizabethan-inspired outfit, a modern take on pirate attire in red and black, complemented her voluminous red curls and impeccable makeup – golden eyeshadow, glowing highlighter, and maroon lips. The performance wasn’t just about the music; it was a fully realized visual experience, with Roan dancing across the stage and utilizing the castle set to its full potential.

She was backed by an all-female band, also dressed in eccentric, drag-queen influenced outfits, further enhancing the theatricality of the show. Addressing the crowd, Roan expressed her gratitude, acknowledging the distance and the enthusiastic reception. She also took a moment to thank her crew, recognizing the challenges of the festival circuit. “It’s a really hard festival run for so many reasons,” she admitted.

The production design was particularly noteworthy, featuring circling dragons and dancing goblin visuals, demonstrating a commitment to creating a fully immersive fantasy world. During her performance of “Hot To Go,” pyrotechnics added another layer of excitement, as fans participated in the song’s signature dance moves.

Roan’s set wasn’t without its unexpected moments. During a cover of Heart’s “Barracuda,” she experienced a wardrobe malfunction, playfully revealing, “I wasn’t on the floor having a seizure… my nipple came out.” She also addressed rumors about cosmetic surgery, stating, “Yes, We see my real a**.” These candid moments added to the authenticity of her performance and connection with the audience.

The 90-minute concert concluded with performances of “My Kink is Karma” and “Pink Pony Club,” leaving a lasting impression on attendees. Despite some reported audio issues, the overall response was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the creativity and energy of the show. This performance underscored Roan’s recent recognition as Best New Artist at the 2025 Grammys.

Role Model’s Surprise Guest

Beyond Roan’s headlining set, the festival featured a memorable surprise appearance from Robert Irwin, the wildlife warrior, as a guest dancer during American singer Role Model’s performance of “Sally, When The Wine Runs Out.” Irwin’s appearance, anticipated by fans after he posted about the song on Instagram, drew a huge reaction from the crowd, who cheered as he danced on stage, even demonstrating his signature worm.

Other Standout Performances

British band Wet Leg also delivered a compelling performance, captivating the audience with lead singer Ellie Rowsell’s powerful vocals and a stellar look featuring a white outfit embellished with blue stars. Rowsell expressed her appreciation for Australian audiences, hinting at a future headline tour Down Under later in the year.

Fellow British act Wolf Alice also energized the crowd with a set featuring hits like “Bloom Baby Bloom” and “Don’t Delete the Kisses.” Lead singer Ellie Rowsell connected with the audience, expressing her fondness for Australian fans and announcing the band’s upcoming headline tour in December.

Laneway Festival’s Perth leg proved to be a resounding success, showcasing a diverse lineup of talent and delivering a memorable experience for attendees. Chappell Roan’s performance, in particular, stood out as a highlight, cementing her position as a dynamic and captivating force in the pop music landscape. The festival concluded with a four-out-of-five-star rating, a testament to the quality of the performances and the overall festival experience.