RECAP: REX ORANGE COUNTY "FINALLY: A THEATRE TOUR" VANCOUVER NIGHT 1

2 min read

For the first of two sold-out nights in Vancouver, Alexander O’Connor, famously know as Rex Orange County delivered a heartfelt and intimate performance, wrapping up the North American leg of Finally: A Theatre Tour. This marked the 26th stop through 14 cities, as he now prepares to return to London for four grand finale shows. With the release of his fifth studio album, The Alexander Technique, Rex brought fans into a reflective space. His decision to perform in theatres—avoiding the arena route—set the stage for an evening filled with emotion and close connection.

Photos by Tage Stenner / Backspin Canada

Rex took the stage in his signature style: a dress shirt and tie paired with a burgundy vintage "V" Vancouver Canucks cap, baggy dress pants, a jacket, and Uggs. The quirky yet casual look reflected his down-to-earth charm, instantly endearing him to the audience.

The evening opened quietly with “Alexander,” the album’s contemplative first track. Curtains remained drawn, with Rex performing alongside an actor dressed as a doctor—a theatrical nod to the song’s themes of self-discovery. As the track faded, he stepped off the stage and into the crowd to perform “Therapy.” Walking through the aisles, Rex high-fived fans, signed a vinyl, and made every corner of the theater feel included. It was a rare, tangible connection that set the tone for the night.

When the curtains finally lifted, they revealed a stunning stage design: a minka-inspired Japanese home. The tranquil backdrop paired beautifully with introspective tracks like “Guitar Song” and “2008,” immersing the audience in the album’s serene yet emotionally charged atmosphere.

Midway through, Rex surprised fans with a soulful cover of Alicia Keys’ “No One,” showcasing his ability to reimagine a classic. Then came “IF YOU WANT IT,” an unexpected addition that felt like a gift to longtime fans.

One of the most powerful moments came with “Best Friend.” Before starting, Rex asked the audience to turn off their phones—a rare request in the digital age. The result was transformative, with the crowd fully present, singing along in unison. The theatre seemed to vibrate with connection as Rex’s voice carried the song’s hopeful refrain.

The energy shifted with tracks like “Television/So Far So Good,” lifting spirits, before the evening wound down with tender performances of “Finally” and “AMAZING.” For the encore, “Pluto Projector” closed the show in spectacular fashion, with Rex under a single spotlight, his voice carrying the weight of a bittersweet farewell.

This tour marked a deliberate departure for Rex Orange County, favouring intimacy over scale. By blending theatrical elements, heartfelt performances, and personal interactions, he crafted an experience that resonated deeply with fans.

As he heads to London to close out the tour, the lingering question is whether this stripped-down approach will inspire a trend in live music. If this show is any indication, intimacy on stage might just be the future.