Opening act Hot Chelle Rae fulfilled their promise to “heat things up” before The Script took stage at The Pageant Wednesday night.

Hot Chelle Rae’s “Tonight, Tonight” was an obvious fan favorite, as the crowd alternated verses with the band throughout the song. Not only did they allow the crowd to take over on some verses, but with high energy, lead singer RK spent most of the time between songs interacting with the crowd, making The Pageant’s comfortable venue feel even more intimate.

The Script, a band from Dublin, Ireland, followed their lead by interacting with the crowd on a whole new level.

Several times during the evening, Danny O’Donoghue, the fun-loving lead singer, hopped off stage and strutted through the crowd. As he walked by his excited fans, he would thrust the microphone in front of their faces and encourage them to sing along with him.

There was not one time during the concert where a giant smile left O’Donoghue’s face, and it was clear that this band loves performing live music. Not only was the level of crowd interaction high, but the level of musicianship that was demonstrated throughout the show was astounding.

Band members could be seen switching instruments for most of the night’s set list. From drums to acoustic guitar, and from electric guitar to keyboard, these young Irishmen obviously knew not only their way around the stage, but also their instruments.

More than once, The Script said how honored they felt to being singing in a venue so far away from their home, while being welcomed by the crowd with the same energy and intensity.

Their lyrics transcend cultural boundaries, as they sing about heartbreak, leaving loved ones and basic life events that are true to all humanity. Passion oozes out of this group as they sing their self-authored hits, making this show one of the most honest and sincere concerts.

The Script’s love of their music was infectious, to the point that many fans continued singing the group’s songs at the top of their lungs as they walked through the parking lot to their cars after the concert had ended.

St. Louis audiences should hope that this appearance by The Script will not be their last in this city. Their passion and talent will drive them farther, as they said while walking offstage after the last song, “We’re only just getting started.”