Coachella kicks off with Sabrina Carpenter and surprise guests
Coachella Kicks Off with Sabrina Carpenter and Unscripted Performances
The Coachella music festival officially launched its 2024 edition on Friday, with pop icon Sabrina Carpenter taking the stage as the headliner. The event took an unexpected turn when Susan Sarandon, a surprise guest, appeared mid-performance, portraying an older version of the 26-year-old artist in a dramatic monologue. Comedian Will Ferrell and actor Sam Elliott also joined the act, blending Hollywood flair into Carpenter’s set.
Weather Disruptions Prompt Stage Cancellations
Strong winds in the California desert disrupted the festival’s schedule, leading to the cancellation of DJ Anyma’s set after Carpenter’s performance. The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival announced the decision via Instagram, stating, “Due to strong wind conditions affecting Anyma’s stage build, he is unable to perform tonight.” The statement emphasized safety as the top priority. Wind gusts were forecasted to reach 25 mph, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a dust advisory for the region.
“Particle pollution can get deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems such as asthma attacks, heart and lung disease symptoms, and increased risk of lung infections,”
the National Weather Service warned. The advisory covers Friday afternoon through Sunday morning, affecting sensitive groups in the Coachella Valley. Despite the warnings, air quality levels were deemed good to moderate after noon on Thursday, according to the local air quality management district.
A Hollywood-Themed Opening Act
Carpenter transformed the stage into a fictional Hollywood Hills neighborhood, dubbing it “Sabrinawood.” Her set began with a short film where she was stopped by Elliott during a nighttime drive. After being let go by the actor, she emerged onto the main stage. Ferrell later joined the performance, impersonating an electrician in a lighthearted interlude. Other Friday acts included KATSEYE and Disclosure, while Saturday’s headliner is Justin Bieber and Sunday features Karol G.
Global and Local Talent Highlighted
The festival lineup also showcases several UK artists, such as Wet Leg, Lambrini Girls, Little Simz, and FKA Twigs. These performers will return next weekend alongside the main acts. Coachella, held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, has been a staple of the music scene since 2002, drawing over 100,000 attendees each day during its two-weekend run.
