Sharon Van Etten and Attachment Theory Deliver Captivating Show in Wellington

On November 25, 2025, Sharon Van Etten and her band, Attachment Theory, captivated audiences at Wellington’s Opera House with a compelling performance that blended emotive storytelling and dynamic musicianship. The evening showcased Van Etten’s latest work, marking a significant collaboration with her band, which recorded their new album together.

Opening Act Sets the Stage

Before Van Etten took the stage, American singer-songwriter Shannon Lay warmed up the audience with her enchanting acoustic set. Armed with just her guitar and a powerful voice, Lay delivered a series of delicate tunes that resonated with the crowd. Her final song, performed a capella, provided a stunning conclusion to her set and set a high expectation for the night ahead.

As Van Etten emerged, the atmosphere shifted. Known for her indie folk rock style, she brought an introspective and dramatic edge to the performance. The synergy between Van Etten and her band was palpable from the start, as they opened with three tracks from their new album, aptly titled Sharon Van Etten & the Attachment Theory.

A Journey Through Sound and Emotion

The opening song, Live Forever, enveloped the audience in a beautifully heavy moment, enhanced by striking lighting that transformed the stage into a vibrant experience. The pulsating rhythm of Afterlife resonated deeply, while Idiot Box showcased Van Etten’s versatility as she picked up a guitar for the first time that evening.

The band’s coordination was impressive, with Van Etten often engaging closely with her bandmates: bassist Devra Hoff, guitarist Shanna Polley, drummer Jorge Balbi, and keyboardist Teeny Lieberson. These moments of near-physical connection underscored the trust and camaraderie that fueled their performance.

The live renditions of past favorites such as Serpents and Seventeen were reimagined through the lens of the band’s new energy, creating an immersive and revitalizing experience for the audience. Each song flowed seamlessly into the next, with Hoff’s driving bassline and Lieberson’s ethereal synths adding depth to the evening.

As the night progressed, Van Etten expressed her gratitude to the band and crew, reinforcing the human element behind their captivating sound. Before the encore, she shared her admiration for New Zealand and expressed a desire to return for a holiday, prompting a playful shout from the audience offering accommodation—an example of the warm connection between the artist and her fans.

The closing number, Indio, marked a powerful conclusion to the evening. Van Etten described the song as a product of her time away from the band, resulting in an unexpected and energetic performance that left the audience enthralled. As the final notes faded, the crowd remained spellbound, reflecting the impact of the night.

Overall, Sharon Van Etten and Attachment Theory delivered a flawless performance that reaffirmed Van Etten’s standing as one of the leading voices in contemporary music. The standing ovation at the end was a testament to the collective experience shared by the audience, echoing the sentiment that they had witnessed something truly special that night.