In an electrifying throwback to one of pop music’s most iconic eras, the Montreal Forum was transported back in time as Madonna’s legendary “Who’s That Girl World Tour 1987” was spectacularly recreated for two sold-out nights on July 6 and 7, 2025. With all tickets priced at a retro-inspired $32.50, fans flooded the historic venue in a wave of neon, lace, and nostalgia, eager to relive the high-energy magic of the Queen of Pop at her ‘80s peak.
Opening both nights with style and groove were British jazz-funk legends Level 42, whose own chart-topping hits from the decade perfectly primed the crowd for an unforgettable evening of classic pop showmanship.
A Nostalgic Revival Like No Other
The 2025 revival of Madonna’s “Who’s That Girl” tour wasn’t just a concert—it was a full-blown time capsule, meticulously curated to replicate the style, energy, and spectacle of the original 1987 run. With a career-defining setlist, vintage costumes, and original choreography, the production was billed as a hybrid live concert experience and theatrical reenactment. For fans who were there the first time, and for younger generations who’ve only known Madonna through YouTube and streaming services, the event was a rare chance to step inside a living piece of pop culture history.
Fans came dressed to impress—fishnet gloves, oversized bows, layered jewelry, acid-wash denim, and crimped hair were proudly on display, reflecting the vibrant fashion of the era that Madonna helped define. Some even brought original 1987 tour memorabilia, proudly waving vintage posters and wearing faded concert tees.
A Setlist of Solid Gold Hits
From the moment the opening beats of “Open Your Heart” reverberated through the Forum, it was clear that this wasn’t going to be a simple tribute—it was a resurrection of an era. The setlist matched Madonna’s 1987 tour almost song-for-song, including global hits like:
- “Lucky Star”
- “Papa Don’t Preach”
- “La Isla Bonita”
- “Holiday”
- “Like a Virgin”
- “Into the Groove”
- “Live to Tell”
- “Who’s That Girl”
Each track was performed with high-octane precision, accompanied by vintage dance routines and Madonna’s signature sass and theatricality. A standout moment came during “Live to Tell,” where a spotlight bathed the stage in moody blue as images from the ‘80s—newsreels, film clips, and fan footage—were projected in haunting slow motion, creating a poignant tribute to the era.
Level 42: The Perfect Opening Act
British band Level 42, known for their sophisticated musicianship and infectious grooves, opened both nights with a high-energy set that included ‘80s staples like:
- “Lessons in Love”
- “Something About You”
- “Running in the Family”
- “Hot Water”
Led by bassist and frontman Mark King, Level 42 brought a smooth, funky edge to the evening. Their musicianship was impeccable, and their chemistry with the crowd undeniable. For many, seeing this quintessential UK act in such a nostalgic context was a rare and delightful treat.
A Tribute to Pop’s Golden Era
The decision to price tickets at just $32.50—matching the average cost of a concert ticket in 1987—was not only a brilliant marketing move but a generous nod to fans. In an age when ticket prices often soar into triple digits, the affordability made the event feel inclusive and authentic. Scalpers were largely thwarted by a combination of digital queuing and ID-linked entry, ensuring that real fans got to enjoy the show.
The staging, lighting, and sound design were all lovingly crafted to echo the 1987 original. Even the merchandise booths sold replicas of the original tour shirts, posters, and buttons—right down to the bold red-and-black “Who’s That Girl” logo.
Reactions: Fans and Critics Alike Are Enthralled
Reviews have been glowing. Music critics praised the production for its authenticity and heart, while fans flooded social media with clips, photos, and emotional messages about what the event meant to them.
“I was 17 when I saw Madonna at the Forum in ‘87. I’m 55 now. And I cried just like I did back then,” said one lifelong fan.
“I never thought I’d get to experience this tour,” said another, in their 20s. “It felt like stepping into history.”
Some called it “the best retro concert event ever staged,” with many hoping this signals more classic tour revivals from other legendary artists.
A Moment Frozen in Time
Madonna’s original Who’s That Girl tour was her first global stadium tour, a spectacle that cemented her status as the biggest female pop star in the world. Revisiting it now, nearly four decades later, is more than just entertainment—it’s cultural preservation. The Montreal Forum shows weren’t just a concert—they were a love letter to a time when pop music exploded into something global, visual, and unforgettable.
As fans danced, screamed, and sang along to every word of “Holiday” on the final night, it was clear that some things—like a perfectly crafted pop song—never go out of style.
Long live the ‘80s. Long live Madonna.
