The hype train has been running red hot for English singer-songwriter Dua Lipa since her eponymous debut album came out in the summer of 2017.

It’s hard to even turn on the TV without seeing one of her songs in a commercial or to see her as a special guest on any number of talk shows.

On Friday night she brought “The Self-Titled Tour” through the Vogue Theatre, performing to a sold-out venue.

Once I arrived at the theatre, I had to push my way through the throng of people to make my way near the front. The audience was young and eager; an electric, anticipatory energy coursed through the air.

Things started off with the house lights dimming and the Ms.Lipa’s band filtering on to the stage.

They rolled into the opening track “Hotter Than Hell”, the third single from her inaugural album. The audience was enthralled.

Moments later Dua skipped out from behind the curtains and dove right into the first lyrics – “He calls me the devil/I make him wanna sin”. The audience collective lost their minds; screaming, singing, and even some over-excited tears. It was a truly intense moment.

I watched in awe as this songstress effortlessly used the entirety of the stage; dancing and remaining in constant motion.

Her vocals were sultry and emotional, though the mix could have been a little more flattering, as the first few tracks felt a little muddy. Regardless, she was the perfect representation of a gracious, talented, rising pop-star still overcome by the newness of it all. She was constantly smiling and smirking as she watched the crowd sing along and react to her performance, it was really endearing to witness.

As the set rolled on, her performance held up to its original energy. The venue became a giant dance house; outstretched, bobbing hands clutching cell-phones and wide-eyed, smile adorning faces from wall to wall.

The hype built behind this musician was justified in Vancouver. She works hard and she delivers a well-rounded visual and musical performance.

I would imagine the next time she is in town, she will be playing an arena tour.

To those that were lucky enough to score a ticket to Fridays sold-out show, they witnessed something special.

Thank you to Dua Lipa for the wonderful night out, we hope to see you back very soon.

Photos © Jamie Taylor // Cryptic Photography