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Dua Lipa ACL Weekend 1: A Stellar Performance

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The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Mich chapter.

Dua Lipa’s headline performance at Austin City Limits 2024 Weekend 1 was truly unforgettable. I was lucky enough to be right at the front, with the perfect view and sound. Performing on the American Express Stage against the backdrop of Austin’s skyline, she had the entire festival crowd singing along to every lyric. Her energy and talent left everyone in awe! 

Dua Lipa strutted onto the stage in a sultry black lace bodysuit, setting the tone for her performance as the opening notes of “Training Season” played. She was joined by a stunning set design and a group of even more remarkable backup dancers.

What followed was a staggering hit parade that showcased Dua’s impressive catalog of chart-toppers. The setlist flowed seamlessly from one banger to another, including crowd favorites like “One Kiss,” “Illusion,” “Break My Heart,” and “Levitating.” For me, the highlight of the night was a deep cut “Be The One” from her debut album—it was absolutely unforgettable.

dua lipa at the barbie premiere
Warner Bros

The level of production was truly outstanding. Every song was executed with advanced choreography that was absolutely out of this world. Dua’s dancers moved with precision that complemented her powerful vocals and commanding stage presence. 

The visual spectacle was further enhanced by a dazzling light show and perfectly timed fireworks (to Levitating of course), creating an immersive experience that captivated the audience stretching across half the length of Zilker Park.

Throughout the set, Dua Lipa demonstrated why she’s considered one of the best pop performers of our generation. Her vocals were perfectly on point and she effortlessly transitioned from upbeat dance numbers like “New Rules” to more vulnerable ballads like “Happy For You.” 

Despite the massive scale of the performance, Dua managed to create moments of intimacy with her audience. She took time to express her gratitude and awe at the size of the crowd, reflecting on how far she’s come since her last performance in Austin at SXSW in 2016. 

Fans were singing and dancing along to every single song. I know I was! 
Dua Lipa closed her set with the hit single “Houdini,” accompanied by a final round of fireworks that lit up the Austin sky. It was truly an amazing sight. Dua Lipa’s ACL 2024 Weekend 1 performance was a resounding success. She proved once again that she’s not just a pop star, but a true entertainer capable of delivering a world-class show. I am so glad I got to see her on her Radical Optimism Tour!

Olivia Vegas

U Mich '26

Olivia Vegas is currently a junior at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI. There she is studying communications and media, hoping to work in public relations and marketing. Aside from writing, Olivia enjoys cooking with her friends, trying new coffee shops, and traveling.