November 7, 2024

Caroline Cronin

9th Grade

Fairfax High School

She’s Got That Style

AV stands for audio-visual technology. It has two parts: an audio element and a video element. A typical list of AV equipment used for big events includes microphones, speakers, lighting, and much more. This important equipment can either make or break a presentation, whether it is a concert or simply just a school play. The technology used during Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour includes captivating video walls, futuristic lighting, top-of-the-line sound systems, interactive LEDs for the audience, and special effects. 

Now, if you’ve ever been to a concert on a budget, you know what it’s like to grab the only available seats within your price range—the ones in the very back. These seats, notoriously called “nosebleeds”, are known for being the worst because you don’t have a good view of the performance, and you’ve just wasted your money to look at… nothing. Until now. In Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, there are huge video walls slightly above the stage of each stadium where you can see Taylor Swift from many angles and in real-time as if you were right up there in the front row. Additionally, several panels lined up create interesting colors and scenes that match Taylor Swift’s eras and the songs she performs at that time. 

Finally, the lighting systems really bring the visual elements to life. The stage changes color and design to match Taylor Swift’s dance movements and songs. There are spotlights and lasers, and the stage is also interactive. A popular topic of discussion has been Taylor Swift’s “dive” into the stage. How it works is that Taylor Swift waits for a green light below the stage —that’s her cue to go. Then, she dives onto an inflatable that moves her to the other side of the stage and the interactive elements make it look like she is swimming.

Enchanted to See This

Don’t forget about the special effects! These mesmerizing additions to Taylor Swift’s performances enhance the overall experience. Some of the most amazing effects include fire in the air, fireworks, confetti, cannons, snow, and animations to accompany everything. There are also pyrotechnics, smoke machines, and laser lights. 

A Swift Conclusion 

The technology that makes the Eras Tour possible has amazed the world in many ways. From dazzling effects to impressive lighting and sound systems, the systems and crews that make the Eras Tour possible have demonstrated major advances in technology and the continuous strive for new ideas.