PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — After a year off because of COVID-19, some Independence Day traditions have returned. One of them was Saturday night, as the Philly Pops returned to the Mann Center for the Performing Arts.
It was the Pops' first time performing together in 16 months. Hundreds filled the Mann Center's seats, cheering and waving miniature flags.
For eight-year-old Elisa and her brother, it was their first concert.
"I love this type of orchestra because I love hip-hop and pop," said Elisa.
Broadway star Joshua Henry performed a song from the hit musical Hamilton, as well as a Nina Simone standard.
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But Elisa's favorite? "I liked Uptown Funk, because they kind of remixed it, and I love that song," she shared.
Many families were just happy to be out again after a year stuck inside without live music performances. As the concert began, the rain started to pour. But the weather didn't stop a beat.
The Welcome America festivities conclude at the Mann with the July 4 concert, featuring Bebe Rexha and Flo Rida, followed by the traditional fireworks display over the Philadelphia Museum of Art.