The Killers Bring Their Excellent Show to Omaha’s New Venue – Steelhouse

WORDS BY DAVID TAYLOR AND PHOTOS BY BOB DeHART | Go Venue Magazine

On May 12, 2023, the city of Omaha, Nebraska welcomed Steelhouse Omaha to its community, opening the door to artists that can bring audiences exceeding the Orpheum, but just the right size compared to an arena. By kicking off the opening of this state-of-the-art venue, Omaha Performing Arts and Live Nation brought along Las Vegas pop rock band, The Killers, to break the Steelhouse in. This was a momentous day for the Omaha music scene, and I am excited about the future of this establishment.

The Killers, hailing from Las Vegas, have not played the Omaha area since they played Council Bluffs in 2007. So, this was a long time coming, especially getting to play the first show ever for a 3,000 capacity venue, a rarity for this arena band. Once the Killers went on stage, it was like one big dance party. Lead singer Brandon Flowers is a consummate performer, bringing so much energy and charisma to his performance. Ronnie Vannucci Jr. was such a versatile drummer to watch hit the skins. I was surprised to see they brought some backup singers, earning points in my book. They brought along so much confetti and streamers to Steelhouse, it was quite a showing. During the guitar solo of “Caution”, falling pyrotechnic stars came down and rose up, creating a haze that continued throughout the night. The crowd was very energetic throughout the night as The Killer played through their extensive catalog of songs from all seven albums. They, of course, ended the night with their signature song, “Mr. Brightside”, a sing-along for the ages. Thank you, Omaha Performing Arts, for letting Go Venue Magazine cover this one-of-a-kind event. I never thought The Killers would be a perfect artist to open up this venue of a certain caliber, but once they kicked in, I completely understood why they booked them. Be sure to be on the lookout for The Killers’ eighth album, dropping hopefully later this year. And I hope this band doesn’t take sixteen years to return to the metro area.

The Killers at new venue, Steelhouse Omaha on May 12, 2023. Photo by Bob DeHart.
The Killers at new venue, Steelhouse Omaha on May 12, 2023. Photo by Bob DeHart.
Inside the new venue, Steelhouse Omaha on May 12, 2023, as the fans awaiting to see The Killers. Photo by Bob DeHart.
Inside the new venue, Steelhouse Omaha on May 12, 2023, as the fans awaiting to see The Killers. Photo by Bob DeHart.