Sara Kays
Article by Brittany Ormiston
“Getting to play a show where people are not only listening, but also singing back to me felt so good.” Sara Kays felt endless love and admiration during her first official hometown show in Indianapolis. The night was incredibly special with her parents, producer, and close friends in attendance. Sara’s tour photographer and friend, Christian Sarkine, captured the night and created keepsakes for Sara to relive this career milestone over and over again. Christian used to take photographs of her at pizza shop gigs in high school, which made for a full circle moment. Sara’s journey began by performing at local grocery stores and restaurants, and she dreamt about this very night for as long as she could remember. Now she’s accompanying one of her favorite artists on a national tour, and performing to rooms full of fans who are cherishing every moment along with her.
Sara’s set in Indianapolis was simplistic yet filled with immeasurable emotion, transparency, and appreciation. The acoustic set with guitar, ukulele, and keys made for an intimate feel, and created a comforting aura similar to a warm, safe hug. Sara’s uplifting personality showed through her interactions with the crowd. She treated everyone as if she had been friends with them for years, and showed off her sarcastic, witty sense of humor. She chatted before songs with serious storylines, and even introduced everyone to Pickles the Frog who was on the microphone stand. Pickles has recently become her comfort, and even has his own Instagram account. The keychain may not have looked like much to some, but to Sara he means the world. This speaks volumes about Sara’s genuine personality, and how she never takes anything for granted.
Sara displays this same authenticity through her vocals and song lyrics. She was very emotionally invested throughout the entire set, and delivered such a heartfelt performance leaving everyone in the room wanting more. Sara is not afraid to discuss difficult topics in her songwriting, such as her own struggles with body image. “Oh, I'm scared that I'm never gonna like how I look and I wish I knew why,” Sara sings in her track ‘Smaller Than This.’ Sara’s most recent single ‘Math’ illustrates not feeling comfortable in your own skin, and ‘Chosen Last’ discusses being left out by your so-called friends. The music Sara creates and performs is powerful and life-changing as it creates a safe space for listeners, and makes them feel less alone knowing there are others who have similar experiences. The sensational memories created during Sara’s set in Indianapolis will have everyone in attendance saying, “Remember that night?” for years to come.
Egyptian Room of Old National Centre in Indianapolis, IN on May 4, 2022
Photos by Everly Ormiston
