College offers Taylor Swift course for parents ahead of sold-out gigs

Taylor Swift on stage after winning the award for Best Longform Video at the MTV Europe Music Awards 2022 (Ian West/PA Wire).

Sarah Ward

A college in Scotland is offering a course on Taylor Swift to educate parents accompanying children to the US singer’s sold-out tour.

Swift will perform in Edinburgh on June 7, 8 and 9, before her three-night run of shows at the Aviva stadium in Dublin from June 28-30 and in anticipation of this, Glasgow Clyde College (GCC) has launched a Taylor Swift masterclass aimed at teaching parents and plus-ones about the set list and Swift’s evolving wardrobe and hairstyles.

Taylor Swift during the Brit Awards 2021 at the O2 Arena, in London (Ian West/PA)

It will also cover crowd chants as well as Swift’s previous work, including albums Fearless and Folklore.

Because of the youthful age of Swift’s fan base, largely aged between 16 and 25, it is expected many will be accompanied by a parent or sibling.

The free session is designed to help get non-Swifties “up to speed” so they fully appreciate “iconic” moments in the set.

The one-off course, which is free, will take place from 6pm to 7.30pm on May 7 in the Innovation Centre at GCC’s Langside Campus.

Taylor Swift performs on stage during the Reputation Stadium Tour (Ian West/PA)

Robert Anderson, curriculum assistant principal at GCC, said: “Taylor mania doesn’t seem to be slowing any time soon, and we expect it’ll reach its peak here in Scotland in June.

“We understand that not everyone will be up to speed on all things Taylor and might not get the full Eras experience.

“That’s why we created this masterclass – to prepare those who’ll be heading along to the gig with their superfan kids, friends or partners to ensure they have just as memorable a time.

“Taylor’s gigs are known for being so well crafted, and unless you’re a fan yourself, you might miss some of the iconic moments.

“Our expert will take you through everything you need to know – leaving you a Swiftie in no time.”