Orla Gartland, an Irish singer-songwriter known for her indie-pop sound and emotionally resonant lyrics, brought her infectious energy to Polaris Hall in Portland, OR, on November 21st for a sold-out show. Words and photos by Jenny Shackleton

Having gained a dedicated following through viral hits like “Why Am I Like This?” and her 2021 album Woman on the Internet, Gartland’s blend of catchy melodies and relatable songwriting has resonated with listeners worldwide. The intimate setting of Polaris Hall, a venue known for its cozy atmosphere, proved to be the perfect backdrop for Orla’s performance, allowing her to connect with the audience in a way that felt personal and electric.

From the moment she stepped on stage, Orla transformed the small venue into a pulsating arena of energy and emotion. Her setlist, which included tracks like “Kiss Ur Face Forever,” “Late to the Party,” and “Figure It Out,” showcased both her lyrical depth and her ability to command a crowd. Whether she was delivering introspective ballads or upbeat anthems, her presence was magnetic, making the sold-out venue feel much larger than its actual size. The crowd eagerly sang along to every word, their enthusiasm fueling her performance, creating an undeniable synergy between the artist and her fans. Orla’s charisma and engaging stage banter added to the vibrant atmosphere, as she effortlessly blended humor with heartfelt moments.

While this may have been an intimate evening in a smaller venue, it’s clear that Orla Gartland’s trajectory is on an upward rise. As her fan base continues to grow, it’s only a matter of time before she graces much larger stages in Portland, likely at a venue where her infectious energy can be felt by an even wider audience. But regardless of where she performs, it’s clear that her ability to captivate and connect with people of all ages will remain her greatest strength. This won’t be the last time Portland gets to experience Orla’s magic, but it will certainly be a while before the city sees a show so personal and electric.

Photographer/Writer | + posts

Jenny Shackleton (she/her) is a photographer based in Portland, OR, originally hailing from Philadelphia, PA. Her love for live music started over 15 years ago after seeing the Jonas Brothers perform on their Burning Up tour in 2008 and the rest is history. As a naturally shy person, it’s surprising she feels so comfortable at concerts with hundreds of people attending, but has always believed that they are special, somewhat liminal, spaces. Everyone is there for the same reason: to have the best night and see artists pour their souls’ onto the stage. That is what Jenny likes to capture in her photos. Jenny enjoys spending time outside with her partner and their dog, watching movies, and owning way too many sneakers.