A three-storey castle, a mechanical horse, back-up dancers dressed as horror movie monsters and – of course – a meat dress: Lady Gaga pulled out all the stops for her South African debut.

It was an emotional experience for the more than 60 000 Gaga fans who attended the superstar’s first show in South Africa.

Mother Monster performed to a sold-out FNB stadium in Jo’burg on Friday night.

Wigs, glitter and outrageous outfits were the order of the day both on and off the stage, with her fans also going over the top.

Their efforts did not go unnoticed; Mother Monster pulled a few awe-struck Little Monsters up on to stage with her, getting them to join her in a poignant rendition of her anthem for self-acceptance, Born This Way.

She became tearful as well, saying her concert in Jo’burg was among the best she’d ever had, and South Africa would be a stop in all her future tours.

“I want you to remember that it’s always important to risk everything you have for what you believe in. I don’t make music because I want to make money; I make music because I want to change social perspective around the world.

“I believe in a kinder and braver humanity. I believe in a more peaceful universe I believe that humankind has the ability to change. But more than anything I believe you are the most beautiful fans in the world.”

Gaga performs in Cape Town tonight.

Via East Coast Radio
Images via Gallo  Images/Foto24/Lerato Maduna)