Thu Oct 23 06:20:00 UTC 2025: Lorde Conquers Stage Fright, Finds Intimacy on ‘UltraSound’ Tour
Pop star Lorde, 28, is experiencing a career first: feeling completely at home on stage. Known for her candidness about struggling with stage fright since her meteoric rise at age 16 with “Royals,” Lorde says her “UltraSound” tour, supporting her album “Virgin,” has been “transformative.”
In an interview with Variety, Lorde described how the tour intentionally subverts arena show conventions. Eschewing elaborate costumes and visuals, she opts for simple attire and on-stage outfit changes, creating a jarringly intimate connection with the audience.
“It makes me feel incredibly proud to be in something so plain,” Lorde said, emphasizing the show’s focus on the audience’s energy and her own stripped-down performance.
The tour’s rawness extends to exposing the production’s “guts and wires,” showcasing unflattering angles via a camera crew, and embracing imperfections like Lorde’s acne. This vulnerability is not only intentional, but a strength.
Lorde worked with choreographer Kianí Del Valle to incorporate “pedestrian” and “animal” movements, adding another layer to the performance. Other unconventional aspects include the incorporation of a water bottle as a personal talisman and the act of taping her chest on stage during “Man of the Year.”
The setlist, carefully curated for the “obsessive” fan, blends new material with classic hits like “Royals” and “Ribs,” creating a nostalgic and engaging experience. The tour’s climax comes during “David,” a fan-favorite track that closes the show.
Beyond the performance itself, Lorde values connecting with fans in the crowd, emphasizing their respect and the shared trust. As for what’s next, Lorde hints at new music sooner rather than later.
First Piper 