For the final night of her I Want My Loved Ones To Go With Me Tour, Noah Cyrus turned The Van Buren into a dream. Set as a glowing woodland steeped in ethereal light, and soul-stirring vocals. As the crowd buzzed with anticipation, the stage shimmered under a soft, amber glow. Twigs, vines, and moss crept around the mic stand and scattered rocks. This created an otherworldly forest scene that felt as though the earth itself was breathing in rhythm with her music

With a beat, Cyrus emerged from the shadows holding a softly glowing lantern. The audience didn’t know whether to let go and cheer, or hold their breath. Draped in a layered white dress tied with silk ribbon that matched the one woven into her long, enchanted braid, Cyrus looked like she’d stepped straight out of a storybook. The glow from her lantern caught the delicate sheen of the fabric. All eyes were on her as she opened with “I Saw the Mountains.” Her voice, hauntingly beautiful, filled the venue like light through stained glass.

The set flowed like chapters in a storybook. “Don’t Put It All on Me” and “All Three” showcased the aching vulnerability that has become a hallmark of her songwriting. My jaw was left agape as I took photos in the pit. Just looking around me in awe to validate that we were all witnessing the power that Cyrus delicately controls. “Unfinished” and “I Just Want a Lover” carried a tenderness that drew the crowd closer together. My ears filled with fans singing along. Their hands pressed to their chests. Often I’d catch sight of some even lifting their hats to the air. Offering a silent sway of thanks for the honesty Cyrus shared in every lyric.

Between songs, Cyrus laughed and chatted with her bandmates. Their chemistry radiated warmth. I was witnessing a close knit bond of strong friendship. It was clear they’re more than just a touring group. Easily stamped as a family. At one point, Cyrus admitted, “I can’t wait to go home to my dogs,” but quickly followed with a smile, “but I’m really going to miss being on the road with these people.” The affection on stage was mutual. The feeling oozed with the clouding smoke. The shared joy added to the intimate magic of the night.

A highlight of the evening came during “I Burned LA Down,” when her voice soared over the crowd. The ache in Cyrus’ delivery sliced straight through any stillness. “Going to California,” a stunning Led Zeppelin cover. Performed with her band gathered close at the center of the stage. The arrangement was delicate and soulful. Gentle kindness was eased, as Cyrus apologized for the VIP members who had already heard her sing “The Worst Of You.” In all honesty, it was a gift. No apology needed. 

Before performing “July,” Cyrus took a moment to reflect on her journey. She spoke with gratitude about how the song changed her life. She shared that when she first wanted to release it, her label only gave her $500 for the music video. As video promotion was a great deal back then. I couldn’t honestly believe how a label would carry high expectations out of a young artist and yet give them very little. That moment captured what makes Noah so genuinely special. Her career has never been about numbers, but authenticity. Her voice, mesmerizing and deeply human, carries an honesty that connects instantly. Fans adore her and her art, because of how authentic she is. Real. No smoke and mirrors. When she sang “July,” the crowd joined in, singing softly. I myself love this song. Over time it is an often repeat. Seeing the artist perform it live was a moment I certainly will never forget. Something haunting in the heartbreak of it sunk into my skin, and felt healing. 

As the night continued with “Noah (Stand Still),” “If There’s a Heaven,” “Again,” and “I Got So High That I Saw Jesus,” the feeling of not wanting the night to end only grew stronger. There was an appreciation of her older songs, but a newfound tenderness for the sound she sank comfort within. During the latter, a soft cloud of smoke rolled across the stage. Noah and her band giggled mid-song, giving the performance a sense of carefree serenity. She closed the night with “Make Me (Cry)” and “XXX.” The crowd lingered even after the last note faded, reluctant to let go of the moment.

With the last show of her tour coming to a close, Cyrus’ voice shimmered with pain, hope, and divine beauty. Her performances were moments of invite. Noah Cyrus defined her own path once again. One built not on numbers or industry limits, but on truth, talent, and the kind of artistry that will echo far beyond the walls of The Van Buren.