*Olivia Rodrigo performing at Rogers Arena in Vancouver. Photo by Julia Verea Photo*

There was nothing special about Friday, January 8th, 2021. I laid in bed and scrolled Instagram, where everyone I followed posted the same song to their story: “drivers license by Olivia Rodrigo”, so I listened, again, and again…

On Friday, August 9th, 2024 a last-minute opportunity to review Rodrigo’s concert at Roger’s Arena came up, and I jumped at the chance. I dropped what I was doing and got to the arena as fast as I could, eager to listen to Rodrigo’s stunning vocals.

It was a sold-out show, and the outside of the arena was swarming with fans, like hopeful bees hoping to get a glimpse of their queen as they took photos next to Rodrigo’s tour buses. One thing was undeniable, the energy was palpable.

The atmosphere at Roger’s Arena was electric, the venue was beautifully adorned with stars, the same stars on Rodrigo’s album cover. Fans were singing along to Olivia’s every word as she played the piano, making the Arena feel massive and intimate, all at once.

Olivia Rodrigo’s ability to connect with her audience was on full display throughout the night. After opening with newer tracks like “bad idea right?” and “ballad of a homeschooled girl,” she addressed different sections of the arena, ensuring that everyone felt included in the experience. She repeatedly expressed her gratitude for the warm Vancouver welcome, a sentiment met with thunderous applause and cheers from the crowd.

At one point, in the middle of a song, she took a moment to wish a fan a happy birthday, responding to a sign in the crowd. This personal touch, along with her frequent acknowledgments of the audience, made the large venue feel remarkably intimate.

One of the most visually striking moments of the night came when Rodrigo sat atop a floating crescent moon that floated above the audience and moved throughout the venue as she sang some of her more deep, emotional tracks. This dreamlike moment combined Rodrigo’s emotional vulnerability and raw vocals with her striking starry visuals that are all over her album covers and merch.

Olivia Rodrigo’s concert in Vancouver was a testament to her growth as an artist and performer. She seamlessly blended intimate, emotional moments with high-energy rock anthems, all while maintaining a genuine connection with her audience. The combination of stunning visuals, powerful vocals, and a carefully curated setlist made this concert an unforgettable experience for everyone in attendance.

As the lights dimmed and the final notes of “get him back!” faded, one thing was clear: Olivia Rodrigo isn’t just singer — she’s a pop star, a true performer, capable of captivating a crowd and leaving a lasting impression.

Vancouver won’t soon forget the night they spent under the stars with her and neither will I.

Olivia Rodrigo is not a singer, she’s a STAR.

A Night with Jeremy Zucker at the Vogue Theatre in Vancouver