Words cannot begin to explain the masterpiece that was displayed in the “Avatar: The Last Airbender” (ATLA) live concert. On Thursday, Oct. 23, Lafayette was given the privilege of hosting the show in their very own Heymann Performing Arts Center. 

Unfortunately, at first I was not able to attend, but knowing my love for the show, I made sure to see it the next day, even though that meant I had to drive all the way to New Orleans. 

Created in 2005, “Avatar: The Last Airbender” is an American animated television show loved by many generations. As a little girl, I remember watching episode after episode of “Avatar: The Last Airbender” airing on TV. 

As a child, I was obsessed with it and everything it had to offer. However, there was a point in time where it kind of just stopped being televised, and frankly, I didn’t really put much thought into it at the time. Life went on, and I forgot about the show’s existence, continuing to go about life. 

It wasn’t until May of 2020 that ATLA was released on Netflix. After years of never even thinking about the show, my mind was transported back to a space of peace—a time when nothing else mattered in the world—evoking a sense of true nostalgia. 

Though it seemed like it never truly resonated with me, once seeing it again, I realized how much it had actually shaped me. 

Watching it again for what felt like the first time had blown me away. I truly had seen this show for the beauty it encompasses, living in such a prestigious cinematic experience. 

Since then, I have probably rewatched the show about 13 times, and I say this with no exaggeration. So once I heard about the live concert happening, I didn’t care when or where; I knew I was going to be there. 

The lights dimmed, the stage was lit and people were crowded in the rows. It was finally time for the show to start. I sat down in my seat, viewing the empty stage, yet to be filled by the musicians who were going to take over. 

Oh, how the excitement was anticipated in my chest. Once the moment came and the first string of the violin was played, everything started to sink in. 

The concert consisted of music from each season of the show, capturing key scenes, expressing such clarity and cohesiveness. 

The very first thing to be played was, of course, the introduction to the show. The iconic “Water, earth, fire, air” monologue was given by one of the main characters, Katara. It only took a few seconds before I became fully immersed in the setting after that. 

Once I heard the vocals, along with all the instruments, I was actively amazed. 

A part of me felt disoriented from the world, as if life around me had paused while I lived in this moment of harmonious disorder. 

The orchestra consisted of musical devices spreading across the world. Creating such a rich and fulfilling sound that I’ve never been introduced to before. Music wasn’t just played, but stories were told and emotions were met. 

I won’t lie, there were times when I was expecting the music to be decent and nothing more. 

Yet, song after song, I found myself immersed in the sounds, drawn purely to the artists and how they showcased their talents. 

It all was stunning. When it comes to a live orchestra, something strikes you differently compared to listening to music on a device. Watching other people create harmonies right in front of you alters your brain in a mesmerizing way. I couldn’t help but feel this sense of satisfaction along with a tension of what’s next, how could they top this one? 

Orchestra is all about establishing intricate detail, along with organized chaos, to disperse a series of sounds. Finding each note, each chord and playing it with such unity. 

In a room where layers of instruments are speaking out, they manage to become one, creating the pleasing gift of music that we have the privilege of enjoying. 

As my first live orchestra experience, I don’t think I could ever forget it. If you have the ability to do so, I strongly encourage you to see “Avatar: The Last Airbender” live in concert. Whether you’re a fan or not, you will not be able to deny the beauty articulated in such a performance.