" Applause " was performed live for the first time at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards . Gaga began the performance wearing a square-shaped head piece and an all-white cape as pre-recorded boos were quickly replaced by sound of cheers . Gaga then glided across the stage and was assisted by her dancers as she changed into a black sequin leotard and performed the intricate choreography seen in the song 's corresponding music video . Throughout the performance she cycled through costumes and wigs she had previously employed throughout her career . She danced with a Jeff Koons blue gazing ball , and had her face painted in the style of the single cover by one of her dancers . Gaga concluded the performance by emerging from behind jungle-like scenery dressed in a seashell bikini , big blonde curly wig and took a bow . The singer collaborated with theater director Robert Wilson on the performance . His designed set featured a shimmering white jungle background with letters spelling " Applause " suspended from tree branches . Gaga relegated the performance as a " metaphor " for herself and felt it was " the most physically challenging performance I 've done , ever "
2013 MTV Video Music Awards
2013 MTV Video Music Awards
Applause (Lady Gaga song)