Mariah Carey’s return to Las Vegas wasn’t just a residency; it was a full-blown celebration. On February 12, 2024, exactly 19 years after the release of her iconic album “The Emancipation of Mimi,” Carey christened her new Dolby Live stage at Park MGM with “The Celebration of Mimi,” a 16-night residency dedicated to the record that solidified her comeback to the top of the charts.
A Night Steeped in Nostalgia and Hits
The opening night was a sold-out extravaganza, filled with fans decked out in “Mimi”-inspired outfits and ready to relive a musical era. But there was a twist. While the residency’s title promised a deep dive into “Mimi,” Carey surprised the audience with a first act chronicling her entire career leading up to the landmark album.
This unexpected journey began with a voiceover from Carey herself, narrating the story of “little Mariah” from her memoir, “The Meaning of Mariah Carey.” This emotional introduction set the stage for a chronological setlist featuring Carey’s early hits like “Vision of Love,” “Emotions,” “Make It Happen,” and her MTV Unplugged smash “I’ll Be There” featuring duet partner Trey Lorenz.
Throughout this first act, Carey interwove the songs with anecdotes and memories, treating the audience to a personal glimpse into her career milestones. Whether it was reminiscing about the drama behind VH1’s Divas Live with Aretha Franklin or dedicating “Dreamlover” to the legendary singer, Carey kept the energy high and the crowd engaged.
Finally, We Get to “Mimi”
The pre-Mimi portion of the show also delivered a powerhouse vocal performance of fan favorites like “Can’t Let Go,” “Hero,” “Without You,” “Fantasy,” “Always Be My Baby,” and a mash-up of “Heartbreaker” and “Honey.”
Finally, after a wardrobe change (and a hilarious on-stage touch-up by her longtime makeup artist!), it was time for the main event. Dressed in a series of dazzling outfits by renowned designers like Gaurav Gupta and Sophie Couture, Carey dove headfirst into “The Emancipation of Mimi.”
The crowd roared with approval as she belted out iconic hits like “We Belong Together,” “It’s Like That,” “Shake It Off,” “Get Your Number,” “Don’t Forget About Us,” “Fly Like a Bird,” and “Say Somethin’.” Carey even confessed to a minor choreography mishap during one song, adding to the relaxed and playful atmosphere of the night.
True to classic “Mariah” form, the show offered a glimpse into the superstar’s world. Backup dancers, elaborate costume changes, and even on-stage assistance with her flowing gowns all added to the theatricality of the performance.
A Night to Remember
“The Celebration of Mimi” opening night was a resounding success. It was a night of nostalgia, killer vocals, and a celebration of a record that continues to hold a special place in the hearts of millions. With 15 more nights left, fans can expect an unforgettable journey through Mariah Carey’s musical legacy, culminating in a full-blown “Mimi” experience.
