ARE YOU READY FOR IT?
It’s been a long time coming but it’s finally our time for a cruel summer. Here’s 13 things you need to know ahead of Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour. By Bree Player
1
According to Ticketek, 4 million people attempted to get tickets in the general sale. So although Taylor could have filled the MCG 40 times over, she’s playing just three nights there in mid-February. She will break the record for the largest audience over consecutive nights for the venue.
2
If you (like most fans) missed out on tickets but still want to get in on the action try “Taylor-gating”. Cities across the US saw swarms of fans gathering outside stadiums to listen to the concert from public spaces nearby.
3
Each night Taylor sings two surprise songs from her backcatalogue in what she calls “the acoustic section”. With very few left, Aussie fans thought it was going to be slim pickings, but then Taylor announced she is resetting the surprise songs for 2024, meaning we could get anything.
4
Don’t blame me if I (and millions of other Swifties) have misread the clues, but all signs are pointing towards Taylor announcing the release date for Reputation (Taylor’s Version) at one of her Australian shows. For the record, I predict Melbourne night one.
5
If you’re in the crowd, you must learn the audience chants ahead of the show, like when to scream “1, 2,3, let’s go bitch” in ‘Delicate’, and Kendrick Lamar’s quip in 1989’s
‘Bad Blood.
6
The traffic will be a nightmare, so if you’re driving, pre-book a space and get there early. Public transport is a more reliable option but expect large crowds. And if you’re planning on rideshare or taxis... good luck.
7
As Taylor sings in the song
“You’re On Your Own, Kid”, make the friendship bracelets. People really do show up with handmade friendship bracelets with song lyrics and Swiftie references spelt out on them to trade with other fans.
8
The lines for merchandise will be long, so if you want to prevent game-day stress, head out to the venue the day before to secure your haul. Merch stands are set up both outside and inside the stadiums.
9
One of Taylor’s tour trademarks is to issue every attendee with a light-up wristband.
10
Harry Styles’ Australian tour in February-March last year saw party shops completely sell out of cowgirl hats and feather boas. Swifties are on a whole other level. Almost every concert goer comes dressed up in the aesthetic of their favourite Taylor era.
11
The concert is long – like more than three-and-a-half hours long. So make sure you stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and eat a nourishing meal before the show. Also, wear comfortable shoes. Everyone is up and dancing the entire night, so while those platforms might look fabulous in a photo, you’ll be cursing them halfway through.
12
For a swift (pun intended) entry into the venue, opt for a small, clear bag, or go bag-free if your outfit has pockets.
13
Finally, the million-dollar question: is there any chance of scoring last-minute tickets for the Melbourne or Sydney shows? Yes. You can check Ticketek’s Marketplace (marketplace.ticketek.com.au) from now until the shows to buy resale tickets. May the odds be ever in your favour.