I’m not the largest Olivia Rodrigo fan; I typically don’t seek out her music, and I wouldn’t spend my own money on a ticket to her show. However, I am not a person to pass up a free concert, and when my mom bought four tickets to her show, I was immediately excited. I am very glad that I was able to go and I definitely left a fan. 

I spent the weeks leading up to the show learning her songs, picking out an outfit, and getting ready for the event. We arrived at the United Center at 6 p.m. on March 19 when the doors opened. The line to get in moved quickly, and we were inside before I knew it. My sister and I took some pictures, and we walked around the arena.

Rodrigo opened with her song “bad idea, right?” from her newest album, “Guts.” Before she came onto the stage, a screen behind the stage revealed candles spelling “Guts” that burned until The show started promptly at 8:30. She brought energy and exhorted confidence throughout the entire performance. Most of the audience were teens or little kids with their parents. Despite their age, everyone was dancing along. 

Throughout the show, Rodrigo was able to convey different emotions, her and her dancers corresponding to each of the songs. The dancers were very talented; however, occasionally their strange moves were distracting from the music. 

Rodrigo did a fabulous job using her whole stage and made sure that we got to watch a true performance. In order to include all viewers, she utilized the stage in addition to moving along the barrier of the pit and sitting on a floating moon that went around the arena for her songs “logical” and “enough for you”.

Rodrigo ended her set with “get him back” and this was by far my favorite song she performed. Everyone in the crowd knew it was her final song and so did Rodrigo, everyone gave it their all. Rodrigo conveyed the message of the song to everyone in the audience. Even my dad was singing along. 

Chappell Roan opened for Rodrigo, and she brought a lot of energy to the stage, getting the whole crowd ready for the night. I had heard of Roan before though never listened to her music, but I left a fan. She got the audience involved by explaining dance moves and getting them familiar with her lyrics. 

Overall, it was a fabulous performance. Her dancing, emotions, and strong voice all contributed to the show that Rodrigo gave. The cost of $117 was higher than I would typically pay for a concert of someone who I do not listen to regularly. Even though she isn’t my favorite singer it was a great night and I am very happy that I got the opportunity to watch her perform. I will definitely add her music to my regular rotation. 

4.5/5 paws