If your family was like countless other families that couldn’t shell out hundreds of dollars per ticket to see the world tour by reigning pop princess Taylor Swift, you’ll have an easier time opening your wallet for “Blank Space: The Unofficial Taylor Swift Tribute” show, set to hit the stage at The Fitzgerald Performing Ats Center on November 8.
We caught up with the inspiring Olivia Moretti who portrays the unofficial Taylor Swift in the show for a little Q&A.
1. Tell readers about yourself and how you got into the entertainment business.
I was born and raised in Texas, where I began singing in church at an early age. My parents recognized my passion and encouraged me to continue pursuing music. I participated in beauty pageants, singing competitions, and musical theatre, which ultimately led me to fall in love with performing.
After graduating from Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, I moved to New York to pursue a musical career. Since then, I’ve worked as a session artist and live performer across a variety of genres, including classical, jazz, blues, rock, and pop.
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2. What made you fall in love with Taylor Swift’s music?
When Taylor Swift released 1989, I was deeply immersed in pop music for the first time in my career. That album was a turning point for me, I couldn’t stop listening to it. I spent countless hours driving to gigs every weekend with that record on repeat. It had a sound that stood apart from other pop music I was studying at the time, and it reminded me of the kind of songs I wanted to write myself. From that moment on, I was hooked.
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3. Who should come and see this show, and why?
This show truly has something for everyone. No matter your age, background, or musical taste, there’s a Taylor Swift song that will speak to you. It’s an experience that’s both exciting, relatable and family-friendly. Whether you’re a lifelong Swiftie or just love great live music, you’re guaranteed to have a great time!
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4. What are some of your favorite Taylor Swift songs to perform, and will any of her new album (Life of a Showgirl) be part of the show?
I used to play guitar regularly when performing in New York, and it’s been nice to revisit playing after focusing primarily on vocals for so long. For that reason, one of my favorite songs to perform is All Too Well (10 minutes version). Sometimes we alternate it with songs from the Speak Now era, and Long Live is definitely a close second. It’s a powerful piece that’s also vocally demanding, so it’s very rewarding to perform.
We absolutely love Taylor’s work and have immense respect for everything she’s doing on and off stage. As a tribute act, our goal is to recreate what she has presented live. Our goal is to bring back memories for those who experienced the real thing, and to offer a glimpse of that magic to those who couldn’t make it — especially to the Eras Tour.
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5. What advice would you give young performers who have a passion for theater, dance, and singing?
Believe in yourself. The entertainment industry can be challenging, and there will be times when it’s hard to trust that all your hard work will pay off. Focus on your strengths, and never compare yourself to other artists—every artist has unique qualities that make them shine.
And above all, never give up. It might take years or even decades to reach your goals, but the joy you bring to others will be worth it.
Always be ready. As the saying goes, “Luck is when opportunity meets preparation.” Stay prepared for the right opportunity, and remember: NEVER, EVER GIVE UP!
For tickets to the show, visit www.FlaglerEntertainment.com or call the box office at (386) 447-7547.
