Idina Menzel joins Philly Pops for Independence Mall concert despite heat
Idina Menzel, Philly Pops perform in Philly despite heat
The "Pops on Independence" concert featuring the Philly Pops and Broadway star Idina Menzel took place at Independence Mall despite oppressive heat, with attendees expressing enjoyment and anticipation for upcoming July 4th festivities.
PHILADELPHIA - The "Pops on Independence" concert went on at Independence Mall, featuring the Philly Pops and Broadway star Idina Menzel. Despite oppressive heat that led to earlier event cancellations, people gathered to enjoy the music and celebrate the holiday weekend.
Concert brings music lovers to Independence Mall
What we know:
The Philly Pops performed at Independence Mall with Idina Menzel as the featured guest. Attendees arrived early to secure good spots for the show.
Julissa Norment from Center City said, "We are musical theater writers and she has like a big career in musical theater."
Others, like Brandi Underwood from East Falls, noted the weather improved as the sun went down. "There's a breeze so that's great," said Underwood.
Some attendees passed the time before the concert by playing games or resting in the shade. Haley Rossin from Gettysburg said, "We are playing Azul's Queens Garden it's a board game, strategy game." Sarah Houde from Atlanta added, "It was very hot today, so that was one part of the experience, but we were excited that the concert wasn't canceled. I love the orchestra on the fourth of July."
People said they were grateful the concert continued as planned, even though earlier events were canceled due to the heat.
Preparations underway for Parkway concert and fireworks
Crews worked into the evening to prepare for the fireworks and a star-studded concert on the Parkway scheduled for Saturday, July 4th.
Singer Seal was seen doing a soundcheck ahead of the event.
Some attendees felt the effects of the heat and took breaks to recover. Sharon Spognardi-Abaca from Chalfont said, "I thought I was going to pass out. I did. I really did, and we saw two chairs all by themselves and a tree, and we just went for it." Carlo Abaca from Chalfont added, "They're setting it all up right now for tomorrow's concert and I see people walking around."
Many people arrived early to get a spot close to the stage or to enjoy the atmosphere before the main event began.
What we don't know:
It is not yet clear how many people attended the concert or if any additional changes will be made to tomorrow's events due to the weather.
The Source: Information from FOX 29 reporting at Independence Mall.