The Reflection Tour
The Reflection Tour was the first major headlining concert tour by the American girl group Fifth Harmony, undertaken in support of their debut studio album, Reflection (2015).[1][2] The tour launched on February 27, 2015, at The Regency Ballroom in San Francisco, California, and featured performances across North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East, with the initial leg encompassing 23 dates in the United States and Canada before extensions including a summer run and international shows that continued through February 2016.[1][3][4] Announced on January 7, 2015, via a YouTube video in which the group covered Mark Ronson's "Uptown Funk!", the tour marked Fifth Harmony's transition from opening acts on previous outings—such as those with Demi Lovato and Austin Mahone—to their own headline production by Live Nation.[1] The Reflection album, released on February 3, 2015, debuted at number five on the Billboard 200 and spawned hits like "Sledgehammer" and "Worth It" featuring Kid Ink, which the tour prominently showcased alongside tracks from their earlier EPs.[5] Early legs featured opening acts including Jasmine V, Jacob Whitesides, and Mahogany Lox, while the summer extension added Natalie La Rose, Bea Miller, Debby Ryan + The Never Ending, and Common Kings.[1][3] The tour was praised for its high-energy performances and sold-out venues, comprising approximately 69 concerts and solidifying Fifth Harmony's status as a rising pop act while contributing to the album's commercial success, which included 80,000 units in its first week in the U.S. (62,000 in pure album sales).[6] Notable moments included European dates announced in September 2015 and Latin American stops, though the Mexico City shows in November were impacted when member Normani Kordei missed performances due to a family emergency.[7][4] Overall, the Reflection Tour played a pivotal role in establishing the group's live reputation, blending synchronized choreography, fan interactions, and a setlist emphasizing empowerment themes from their music.[8]Background and Development
Announcement
On January 7, 2015, Fifth Harmony announced their first major headlining concert tour, The Reflection Tour, via a YouTube video in which the group covered Mark Ronson's "Uptown Funk!", for their MTV-presented tour, marking a significant milestone following the group's formation as contestants on the second season of The X Factor USA in 2012 and ahead of their debut studio album Reflection's release.[9] The initial announcement detailed a 20-date North American leg, set to commence on February 27, 2015, at The Regency Ballroom in San Francisco, California, and conclude on March 17, 2015, at the Sound Academy in Toronto, Ontario.[2][10] The tour was positioned as a key promotional vehicle for Reflection, released on February 3, 2015, by Epic Records and Syco Music, with marketing emphasizing the album's themes of female empowerment reflected in tracks like "Worth It" and "Sledgehammer."[11] Alongside fan club access starting January 14, 2015, and general public sales from January 16, 2015; prices began at $30, with simultaneous rollout of VIP packages including meet-and-greets and exclusive merchandise.[12][13]Preparation
Rehearsals for the Reflection Tour commenced in early 2015, emphasizing choreography for tracks from Fifth Harmony's debut album Reflection and enhancing group synchronization following their formation on The X Factor in 2012.[14] These sessions built on the group's existing performance experience to create a cohesive live show format suitable for their first headlining tour. The production team was assembled with key hires including choreographers Nick Florez and RJ Durell as creative directors, who had collaborated with the group on prior performances, alongside specialists in lighting and sound design optimized for both arena and theater environments.[15] This setup ensured technical elements supported the high-energy, synchronized routines central to the tour's structure. The tour's overarching theme centered on self-reflection and empowerment, drawing directly from the album's core messages of personal growth and confidence, as highlighted in the title track "Reflection."[16] Custom graphics and video interludes were developed to reinforce this narrative, with early previews featured in promotional materials to build anticipation ahead of the tour's launch.[14] Preparation encountered logistical hurdles, particularly in aligning the five members' commitments during the final stages of Reflection's recording and promotion in late 2014 and early 2015.[17] Despite the tight timeline—the album released on February 3, 2015, just weeks before the tour's debut on February 27—the team managed to integrate fresh material into the performance framework without delays.Tour Legs and Extensions
North American Leg
The North American leg of The Reflection Tour marked Fifth Harmony's first headlining outing, comprising 23 performances across theater and mid-sized venues from February 27 to March 27, 2015. Kicking off at San Francisco's Regency Ballroom, the itinerary traversed the West Coast, South, Midwest, and East Coast, with stops in major cities including Los Angeles at Club Nokia on March 1, New York City at the Best Buy Theater on March 23, and Fort Lauderdale at the Parker Playhouse on March 7. The tour concluded at Philadelphia's Keswick Theater, incorporating one Canadian date in Toronto at the Sound Academy on March 17. Special guests Jacob Whitesides, Jasmine V, and Mahogany LOX supported all shows, enhancing the youthful pop energy aligned with the group's debut album Reflection.[18][2][19] The opening night in San Francisco highlighted the tour's intimate scale, with the group debuting live performances of "BO$$," the lead single from Reflection released a month earlier, amid high-energy choreography and fan chants that set an electrifying tone. Throughout the leg, Fifth Harmony incorporated social media-driven fan interactions, such as shoutouts to Harmonizers (their fanbase) during shows and pre-sale promotions via their official accounts to build anticipation following the album's chart-topping buzz. Regional adaptations emphasized closer audience proximity in seated theaters, allowing for personalized moments like onstage dedications, contrasting the larger productions planned for subsequent legs. Venues were selected for capacities typically ranging from 1,000 to 2,500, fostering a club-like atmosphere that amplified the group's vocal harmonies and synchronized dances.[20][21][22] Attendance surged early in the leg, driven by Reflection's commercial success—including its No. 5 Billboard 200 debut—and viral singles like "Worth It," leading to sell-outs in cities such as Boston's Wilbur Theatre on March 24. Overall, the theaters filled to capacity for most dates, reflecting strong demand from a predominantly teenage audience eager for the group's first major solo run post-X Factor. This phase established the tour's blueprint of empowerment-themed performances before transitioning to arenas, grossing an estimated portion of the leg's total toward the multimillion-dollar haul.[8][23]Summer Leg
The Reflection: The Summer Tour, an extension of Fifth Harmony's debut headlining outing, was announced on April 27, 2015, via an official press release, and commenced on July 15, 2015, in Louisville, Kentucky, at the Palace Theatre, concluding on September 16, 2015, at the Washington State Fair in Seattle, Washington.[24] This leg featured 31 performances primarily across the United States, with stops in major cities such as Dallas at the Verizon Theatre on August 5, and a single international date in Nassau, The Bahamas, at the Atlantis Theatre on October 10, though the core summer itinerary focused on domestic markets.[25] Building on the sold-out momentum from the initial North American leg earlier that year, the summer portion scaled up to larger amphitheaters and arenas, including venues like the PNC Pavilion in Cincinnati with a capacity of up to 20,000, to accommodate growing demand.[8] The production enhancements emphasized broader visual spectacle, incorporating expanded LED video screens and pyrotechnic elements during high-energy segments like the opener "BO$$," to enhance the immersive experience in outdoor and mid-sized indoor settings.[3] Promotional efforts included Citi Private Pass presales starting April 28 for cardmembers and general ticket sales on May 1, alongside VIP packages offering exclusive merchandise access and on-site shopping opportunities.[22] These initiatives capitalized on the chart success of singles from the Reflection album, particularly "Worth It" featuring Kid Ink, which peaked at number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 in August 2015. A notable scheduling adjustment occurred around the July 18 Cincinnati performance at PNC Pavilion, leading to the cancellation of the show to accommodate the group's appearance at the BET Players Awards on July 19.[8] Additional tie-ins involved radio festival appearances in May preceding the leg's start, such as at the KIIS FM Summer Rush, to build anticipation through contests and fan engagements.[3]European Leg
The European leg of The Reflection Tour, branded as the European Reflection Tour, served as the group's first headlining excursion across the continent, running from October 26 to November 9, 2015. It encompassed six sold-out performances in five countries—Spain, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France—demonstrating Fifth Harmony's burgeoning international popularity following the domestic success of earlier tour segments.[7][26] The itinerary began at La Riviera in Madrid, Spain, on October 26, proceeded to Melkweg in Amsterdam, Netherlands, on October 31, and included back-to-back UK dates at O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire in London on November 3 and The Ritz in Manchester on November 4. The leg continued with a show at Gibson in Frankfurt, Germany, on November 8, before closing at Le Trianon in Paris, France, on November 9. Building on the momentum from the summer leg, these concerts featured adjusted show timings to accommodate European time zones and emphasized fan engagements that fostered connections with local audiences, contributing to the expansion of the group's global fanbase known as Harmonizers.[27][28]Latin American Leg
The tour's Latin American extension consisted of a single performance on November 25, 2015, at El Plaza Condesa in Mexico City, Mexico. This show was notable as member Normani Kordei was absent due to a family emergency, with the group performing as a quartet.[4]Middle Eastern Leg
After a several-month break following the European and Latin American dates, the tour extended to a single performance on February 12, 2016, at du Forum in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, as part of the RedfestDXB festival. This show marked the end of The Reflection Tour and represented Fifth Harmony's debut in the Middle East, highlighting their reach into new markets.[29][30] The international phases presented logistical challenges, including extensive intercontinental travel and readjustments after the summer break, yet underscored the tour's role in solidifying the group's worldwide presence.[7]Production Elements
Stage Design and Costumes
The stage design for The Reflection Tour emphasized the group's energetic performances through a minimalist yet visually engaging setup, featuring tall video screens framed by large parabolic umbrella lights and spotlights that created dynamic illumination without overwhelming the focus on vocals and choreography.[31] This configuration allowed for seamless transitions between songs. For the European leg, the design incorporated a bold red backdrop paired with multiple overhead and floor-level stage lights to enhance the atmospheric intensity.[32] Costume designs were crafted by award-winning designer Marina Toybina, who created the group's first fully custom tour wardrobe to foster a fun, personality-driven aesthetic that supported high-energy movement.[33] For the summer leg, the outfits featured vibrant, stretch-fabric ensembles in bold colors like metallics and blues, evolving from casual streetwear-inspired looks during opening segments to more glamorous bodysuits and skirts for high-impact numbers. In contrast, the European and Asian legs showcased all-red themed attire, including coordinated jumpsuits and capes that symbolized unity and contrasted with the earlier blue palette, allowing for fluid choreography while maintaining a cohesive visual narrative.[34] Lighting and special effects integrated seamlessly with the stage to amplify key moments, including a signature confetti blast during the finale to celebrate audience interaction.[35] The overall production, including these elements, was noted for its polished execution on a modest scale relative to larger pop tours, prioritizing live energy over elaborate mechanics. VIP experiences elevated fan engagement by incorporating exclusive elements into the production flow, such as pre-show photo opportunities with the group and intimate private performances of two songs, followed by Q&A sessions, all accessible via official packages that blended seamlessly with the main show's pacing.[36]Setlist
The setlist for The Reflection Tour centered on tracks from Fifth Harmony's debut studio album Reflection (2015), supplemented by selections from their self-titled EP (2015) and covers, creating a 16-to-18-song performance that emphasized empowerment themes and dynamic pacing.[37] Concerts opened with high-energy numbers to energize the crowd, shifted to mid-show acoustic segments for a more intimate feel, and built to anthemic closers highlighting group vocals and synchronized choreography.[38] A representative setlist from the early North American leg, as performed in Boston on March 24, 2015, illustrates the core structure:| Order | Song | Album/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Reflection | Reflection (opener and intro) |
| 2 | Going Nowhere | Reflection |
| 3 | Miss Movin' On | Fifth Harmony EP |
| 4 | Sledgehammer | Reflection |
| 5 | Better Together | Reflection (acoustic segment start) |
| 6 | Suga Mama | Reflection |
| 7 | Worth It (feat. Kid Ink) | Reflection |
| 8 | Who Are You | Reflection |
| 9 | Body Rock | Reflection deluxe |
| 10 | Everlasting Love | Cover of Carl Carlton (acoustic) |
| 11 | Them Girls Be Like | Reflection deluxe |
| 12 | Top Down | Reflection deluxe |
| 13 | Like I'm Gonna Lose You | Cover medley element with Meghan Trainor track |
| 14 | Nasty | Reflection deluxe |
| Encore | BO$$ | Reflection (added in later shows) |
Support and Performances
Opening Acts
The Reflection Tour featured a rotating lineup of opening acts tailored to each leg, primarily consisting of emerging pop and R&B artists to engage Fifth Harmony's young fanbase. For the initial North American leg starting in February 2015, the primary openers were Jacob Whitesides, Jasmine V, and Mahogany Lox, who performed covers and original songs in pop and R&B styles to energize audiences ahead of the headliners.[2][43] These acts delivered short sets designed to build anticipation and showcase up-and-coming talent aligned with the group's demographic of teen and young adult listeners, often including interactive elements like crowd sing-alongs during pop covers.[44] Their involvement was promoted through joint announcements, including a collaborative tour reveal video featuring all parties and shared billing on official tickets and marketing materials.[45] The summer extension of the North American leg, launched in July 2015, shifted to Bea Miller and Natalie La Rose as consistent openers across all dates, with Debby Ryan + The Never Ending and Common Kings joining for select shows to provide varied R&B and pop-infused performances.[22] These contracts emphasized promotional tie-ins, such as coordinated social media teasers highlighting the artists' synergies with Fifth Harmony.[46] Regional variations included no dedicated opening acts for many European and Asian dates in late 2015, particularly in smaller venues, allowing the headliners extended stage time and a more intimate focus on their performance. This approach integrated seamlessly with the tour's stage design, prioritizing efficient transitions without additional support slots.Special Features
The Reflection Tour incorporated several distinctive elements to enhance fan interaction and performance variety beyond the core setlist. A key feature was the Official Harmonizer VIP Upgrade Package, which provided exclusive access for select attendees, including a group photo opportunity with the members of Fifth Harmony, an intimate private performance of two songs, and a question-and-answer session with the group to foster direct engagement.[36] These VIP experiences were available at multiple North American shows, allowing fans to connect personally with the performers in a structured, pre-show format.[10] To add spontaneity and intimacy to the concerts, the tour featured an acoustic segment dedicated to cover songs, performed without a live band or backing vocalists and relying instead on pre-recorded studio tracks for accompaniment. This unplugged portion highlighted the group's vocal harmonies through renditions of popular tracks, such as those by Mariah Carey and Hozier, creating a more relaxed contrast to the high-energy pop performances.[47] One notable instance of broader fan outreach occurred during the North American leg, where the March 24, 2015, concert in Boston was livestreamed on Yahoo!, enabling global audiences to experience the full show in real time and amplifying the tour's reach.[48] Additionally, soundcheck sessions at select venues, such as the March 17, 2015, event in Toronto, included informal Q&A interactions with early-arriving fans, further emphasizing the tour's commitment to personal connections.[49]Reception and Impact
Critical Response
The Reflection Tour received generally positive reviews from critics, who frequently praised Fifth Harmony's vocal harmonies, commanding stage presence, and the empowering themes woven throughout their performances. In a review of the Phoenix concert during the summer leg, the Phoenix New Times commended the group's strong vocal delivery, particularly Ally Brooke Hernandez's "Mariah Carey-level high F" during a standout moment that induced goosebumps, while noting the energetic stage presence through member-specific dance moves like twerking and grinds.[50] Similarly, Live in Limbo's coverage of the Toronto show highlighted the "dynamic energy" and "strong vocals" in tracks like "Sledgehammer," which sent chills through the audience, alongside infectious choreography and seamless stage sharing among the members.[51] Critics also appreciated the tour's focus on empowerment anthems that promoted self-love and body positivity, aligning with the album's overarching messages. Shameless SF's review of the San Jose performance described the show as "extravagant" with "top-notch production," emphasizing a powerful speech on self-love and body image that positioned the group as positive role models for young fans combating issues like cyber-bullying.[35] These elements contributed to the tour's polished evolution from the group's X Factor beginnings, showcasing their growth into a cohesive live act capable of delivering high-energy pop spectacles. However, some reviews offered mixed feedback on pacing and structure, particularly in smaller or early venues. The Phoenix New Times critiqued the first half of the show for "terrible" choreography that resembled a talent show effort and noted an apparent lack of organic chemistry among the members, contrasting with more established groups like Destiny's Child.[50] Despite these observations, the overall critical aggregation leaned positive, with many outlets awarding around 4 out of 5 stars for the tour's vibrant energy and appeal to young audiences.Commercial Performance
The Reflection Tour completed 62 shows, drawing 32,827 attendees against a total capacity of 35,710 for an occupancy rate of 92%, and generated $1,110,694 in revenue overall. Financial breakdowns varied by leg, with the North American portion averaging $15,000 per show, while the summer leg exceeded $25,000 per show owing to larger venue sizes; European dates achieved multiple sell-outs, enhancing the tour's global visibility. Ticket distribution occurred primarily via Ticketmaster and Live Nation platforms. Beyond direct tour income, the outing positively influenced related media.Tour Dates
Completed Shows
The Reflection Tour comprised 62 completed shows, spanning North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia from February 2015 to February 2016, with venues ranging from intimate theaters to larger arenas and amphitheaters, often selling out or nearing capacity to reflect the group's rising popularity.[32] Below is the full chronological itinerary, grouped by leg for readability.North American Leg (February–April 2015)
This initial 23-show leg focused on mid-sized theaters and clubs across the United States and Canada.| Date | City | Country | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 27, 2015 | San Francisco, CA | United States | The Regency Ballroom |
| February 28, 2015 | San Diego, CA | United States | House of Blues |
| March 1, 2015 | Los Angeles, CA | United States | Club Nokia |
| March 3, 2015 | Dallas, TX | United States | South Side Music Hall |
| March 4, 2015 | Houston, TX | United States | Warehouse Live |
| March 6, 2015 | Fort Lauderdale, FL | United States | Parker Playhouse |
| March 7, 2015 | Tampa, FL | United States | Busch Gardens Tampa |
| March 9, 2015 | Atlanta, GA | United States | Buckhead Theatre |
| March 11, 2015 | Charlotte, NC | United States | Amos Southend |
| March 12, 2015 | Norfolk, VA | United States | The Norva |
| March 13, 2015 | Richmond, VA | United States | The National |
| March 14, 2015 | Chicago, IL | United States | The Vic Theatre |
| March 18, 2015 | Indianapolis, IN | United States | Egyptian Room |
| March 20, 2015 | Royal Oak, MI | United States | Royal Oak Music Theatre |
| March 22, 2015 | Toronto, ON | Canada | Sound Academy |
| March 24, 2015 | Boston, MA | United States | The Wilbur Theatre |
| March 26, 2015 | Red Bank, NJ | United States | Count Basie Theatre |
| March 28, 2015 | Albany, NY | United States | Palace Theatre |
| March 30, 2015 | Mashantucket, CT | United States | The Grand Theater at Foxwoods |
| April 1, 2015 | New York City, NY | United States | David Geffen Hall |
| April 3, 2015 | Boston, MA | United States | Symphony Hall |
| April 5, 2015 | Bethlehem, PA | United States | Sands Bethlehem Event Center |
| April 6, 2015 | Glenside, PA | United States | Keswick Theatre |
North American Summer Leg (July–October 2015)
The 32-show extension, known as Reflection: The Summer Tour, shifted to larger performing arts centers and amphitheaters, with strong attendance in southern and western U.S. cities.[8]| Date | City | Country | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 15, 2015 | Louisville, KY | United States | Palace Theatre |
| July 17, 2015 | Lakewood, OH | United States | Lakewood Civic Auditorium |
| July 20, 2015 | Atlanta, GA | United States | Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre |
| July 21, 2015 | Nashville, TN | United States | Grand Ole Opry |
| July 23, 2015 | St. Louis, MO | United States | Peabody Opera House |
| July 24, 2015 | Rogers, AR | United States | Walmart AMP |
| July 25, 2015 | Baton Rouge, LA | United States | F.G. Clark Center |
| July 26, 2015 | Birmingham, AL | United States | BJCC Concert Hall |
| July 28, 2015 | Jacksonville, FL | United States | Florida Theatre |
| July 29, 2015 | Miami Beach, FL | United States | The Fillmore Miami Beach |
| July 30, 2015 | Clearwater, FL | United States | Ruth Eckerd Hall |
| July 31, 2015 | Orlando, FL | United States | Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts |
| August 2, 2015 | San Antonio, TX | United States | Tobin Center for the Performing Arts |
| August 3, 2015 | Houston, TX | United States | Bayou Music Center |
| August 4, 2015 | Midland, TX | United States | Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center |
| August 5, 2015 | Grand Prairie, TX | United States | Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie |
| August 7, 2015 | Phoenix, AZ | United States | Comerica Theatre |
| August 8, 2015 | Costa Mesa, CA | United States | Pacific Amphitheatre |
| August 9, 2015 | San Jose, CA | United States | Event Center at San Jose State University |
| August 11, 2015 | Santa Rosa, CA | United States | Wells Fargo Center for the Arts |
| August 12, 2015 | Bakersfield, CA | United States | Rabobank Arena |
| August 13, 2015 | Las Vegas, NV | United States | Pearl Concert Theater |
| August 18, 2015 | Denver, CO | United States | Paramount Theatre |
| August 20, 2015 | Kansas City, MO | United States | Uptown Theater |
| August 21, 2015 | Milwaukee, WI | United States | Riverside Theatre |
| August 23, 2015 | Buffalo, NY | United States | Shea's Performing Arts Center |
| August 24, 2015 | Albany, NY | United States | Palace Theatre |
| August 26, 2015 | Washington, D.C. | United States | Warner Theatre |
| August 27, 2015 | New York City, NY | United States | Beacon Theatre |
| September 4, 2015 | Syracuse, NY | United States | New York State Fair |
| September 5, 2015 | Timonium, MD | United States | Maryland State Fair |
| October 10, 2015 | Paradise Island | Bahamas | Atlantis Theatre |
European Leg (October–November 2015)
This 6-show run featured mid-sized venues in major cities, drawing enthusiastic crowds in line with the group's international breakthrough.[32]| Date | City | Country | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 26, 2015 | Madrid | Spain | La Riviera |
| October 31, 2015 | Amsterdam | Netherlands | Melkweg |
| November 3, 2015 | London | United Kingdom | Shepherd's Bush Empire |
| November 4, 2015 | Manchester | United Kingdom | O2 Apollo Manchester |
| November 8, 2015 | Frankfurt | Germany | Jahrhunderthalle |
| November 9, 2015 | Paris | France | Salle Pleyel |
International Legs (November 2015–February 2016)
The final two shows marked the tour's expansion into Latin America and Asia, concluding in the Middle East with a capacity crowd at a prominent arena.[32]| Date | City | Country | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 25, 2015 | Mexico City | Mexico | Teatro Metropólitan |
| February 12, 2016 | Abu Dhabi | United Arab Emirates | Yas Arena |