HONOLULU (KHON2) — Swifties filled theaters across Hawaiʻi this morning, Oct. 3, for the debut of “Life of a Showgirl,” Taylor Swift’s album launch film.
KHON2.com went to Ward Consolidated Theaters to get reactions from local Swifties as they embark on another musical journey with their favorite musical artist.
Lorelei Harold said she already played the album twice and wanted to hear Swift speak directly about the songs.
“I’m just so excited to experience what she has for us,” she said. Harold, who first heard Swift on the radio as a child, said sitting with other fans to hear commentary is “what being a Swiftie and a fan is all about.”
Laila, a visitor from Sydney said the timing worked out perfectly to be able to experience the new album while on holiday in Hawaiʻi.
“I couldn’t go see it at home,” she said. She has already listened once and hopes to see “a new music video and just see all the inspiration she took from all the new songs.”
Ashley Kema said she waited to hear most of the music for the first time in the theater. “I’m a huge Swiftie. I went to the Eras tour. I’ve been a Taylor Swift fan since I was 16 years old,” she said.
When asked why she became a Swifty, Kema said that she “pretty much grew up with her because she’s the same age as me. And through the different phases of my life, she’s had similar phases of her life; and at this age, I feel like she is such a great role model for women my age, but also for my daughters.
Music, merch and screenings
Consolidated Theaters is running showings statewide through Saturday. Rod Tengan said screens opened as early as 9 a.m.
“We’re going to have showings as early as 9 a.m. at some locations, but it’s going to be playing at all Consolidated Theaters,” he said. Tickets are $12 plus tax, or $15 for Titan Luxe.
At Hungry Ear Records in Kakaʻako, collectors lined up for a scented vinyl pressing as local independent record stores have a special edition of the album that major retailers will not have.
The special edition features a glittery Portofino orange design LP and comes scented with notes of sweat and vanilla.
Manager Jim Williams said, “Life of a Showgirl, available Friday at Hungry Ear, only at independent stores and also on her website only.” The Portofino orange LP has a sweat and vanilla scent and sells for $38.99. CDs with an exclusive poster are $19.99.
You can click here for more information on Life of Showgirl launch party showing at Consolidated Theaters across Hawaiʻi. You can click here to access more information on Hungry Ear Records.
Williams said the release arrived with little warning. “It was a last minute, even for the stores themselves,” he said. The shop opens at 10 a.m. and is first come, first served.