SPOKANE, WA – Taylor Swift’s latest project isn’t just streaming online, it’s filling up theaters across the country, including here in Spokane. Fans lined up Friday for Taylor Swift | The Official Release Party of a Showgirl, a limited-time event that combines new music, music videos, and behind-the-scenes storytelling.
For many Swifties, the draw is more than hearing the songs. It’s about being part of a community experience.
Amanda Youngblood, who came to Spokane while visiting for a wedding, said the energy reminded her of Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour.
“One of the best parts of my life was the Eras Tour, it just felt like Barbie’s house,” Youngblood said. “There was so much joy and camaraderie and community. And you know what, Taylor is a business lady… she’s creating community around her art. So I’m here to trade some friendship bracelets, sing half the lyrics I know, and just have a good time.”
Other fans echoed that sense of connection. Angel Oliva, who traveled from Rhode Island, said the film gave him a new appreciation for Swift’s creative process.
“She went behind the scenes and showed the whole process of how she did the music video, from development to the final edit,” Oliva said. “I actually listened to the whole album last night and it was phenomenal.”
The special release also brings a timely boost to Spokane’s independent Magic Lantern Theater. Manager Joe Sheehan said the booking terms were simple and low-risk compared to other films — making it an easy choice to bring Swift to the big screen.
“Not having an advance, not having a guarantee, not being required to show it four or five times a day just made it really simple,” Sheehan explained. “And she’s obviously the definition of box office audience. For us, it’s also about offering something you can’t get anywhere else in Spokane.”
Sheehan said events like this allow smaller theaters to take more risks on independent films and expand options for local audiences.
For longtime fans, being surrounded by other Swifties was just as meaningful as hearing the new music.
“I’ve been a fan since she started making music 20 years ago,” said Elizabeth Bug-Wiltsie. “It makes me feel less crazy… it’s nice to just be around people that feel the same way.”
The Official Release Party of a Showgirl is showing through the weekend at theaters nationwide, including AMC River Park Square and Magic Lantern in downtown Spokane.
