Reneé Rapp kicked off the first of her two headline shows on the BITE ME TOUR, transforming the arena into a vibrant, empowering space where young women could celebrate themselves openly
The only time I’ve ever seen so many women and girls gathered in one place was at Kehlani’s CRASH WORLD TOUR at London’s O2 Arena in January 2025.
Nevertheless, tonight’s show by Mean Girls star Reneé Rapp felt like a true generational milestone, a moment when young girls could openly embrace parts of themselves that were once hidden or even shamed, let alone celebrated as something “cool”.
On Thursday night (March 19) at London’s OVO Arena Wembley, I saw firsthand how women singers like Rapp are rewriting the rules, proving they’re not just pop divas, but true heartthrobs and trailblazers for millions of women and girls.
Kicking off the first of her two London shows on the BITE ME TOUR, Rapp’s unapologetic queerness and magnetic stage presence turned the arena into a safe, electric space where fans could fully celebrate who they are.
For so many in the crowd, her performance wasn’t just about the music; it was a powerful reminder that queer women can be icons, crushes, and role models all at once. Rapp is known for her blunt honesty and candid humour, but she’s also a proud lesbian who loves her community.
That spirit was on full display during her performance of her song Kiss It, when she set up a kiss cam that spotlighted same-sex couples in the crowd, joyfully making out as the arena erupted in cheers. Another standout moment came when Rapp turned the spotlight on giving back, passionately highlighting her work with the Save the Children charity.
She spoke proudly about supporting children in Palestine, Sudan, Congo, and other regions in crisis, using her platform to raise awareness and inspire action among her fans.
The show itself was nothing short of impressive. Rapp is the kind of artist who doesn’t need elaborate props or a troupe of dancers.
Moreover, her powerhouse vocals are more than enough to command the stage. Her Broadway training was unmistakable, shining through in her dynamic delivery and the theatrical flair woven into several of her songs.
With her long, straight, and luscious blonde locks, it was impossible not to be reminded of her iconic turn as Regina George in Mean Girls: The Musical, and she more than did the beloved role justice. The crowd went wild when she treated us to a brief rendition of It’s Not My Fault from the musical’s soundtrack, a perfect nod to the character that first made so many of us fall in love with her.
Anyone who gets the chance to catch a show on Rapp’s tour is in for an absolute treat. As someone who grew up listening to Avril Lavigne, I couldn’t help but wonder if the young girls in Rapp’s audience felt the same thrill I once did, seeing a pop star with rebellious energy, an unapologetically bold personality, and a raw, edgy style.
Thursday’s show marks the first of two scheduled performances at the OVO Arena Wembley in London. There are a total of three headline arena shows in the UK as part of the BITE ME TOUR.
The tour kicked off in Manchester on Wednesday (March 18), at the AO Arena. London fans have two opportunities to catch the show at the OVO Arena Wembley tonight (Friday March 20).
After wrapping up the UK leg, the tour will conclude in Dublin, Ireland, with a final performance at the 3Arena on March 22. For more information visit https://shop.reneerapp.com/pages/tour.
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