Big Time Rush brings real-life energy to Dallas, featuring an unexpected star

DALLAS (KDAF) — It was a hot and sweaty evening on Aug. 16 in Dallas, Texas, but that didn’t stop fans—especially the OGs—from packing out Dos Equis Pavilion. The concert was a time machine back to the early 2010s, when four fictional hockey players thrived as Nickelodeon’s beloved boy band.

From tree hats (iykyk) to fan-made t-shirts, hockey jerseys, and even helmets, the crowd came dressed to reminisce. It’s wild to think that when the show first aired in 2009, Big Time Rush wasn’t even a band yet—just four dreamers chasing stardom.

Though the final episode of Big Time Rush aired around a decade ago, the “In Real Life Worldwide Tour” proves that the fandom is alive and thriving. This isn’t fiction anymore. It’s real life.

And speaking of real life, Gustavo Rocque isn’t a grumpy music producer anymore—he’s Stephen Kramer Glickman, the evening’s first opener and a total surprise. With rock-star charisma and infectious energy, Glickman owned the stage with bold and unexpected covers. Backed by guitarist Soren Crisell, Glickman launched into a gritty version of Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy” that immediately grabbed the crowd’s attention. And watching him stride across the stage while belting out an electrifying cover of “Toxic” by Britney Spears? Absolutely awesome.

Glickman then shifted gears with a raw, emotionally charged performance of Olivia Rodrigo’s “Drivers License.” His take on “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers reignited the energy, adding a dramatic flair to the familiar anthem. He wrapped up with Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club,” a fearless finale that had the amphitheater jumping on its feet.

Following Glickman’s performance was Katelyn Tarver, perhaps best known to some as Jo Taylor on Nickelodeon’s Big Time Rush. But on this stage, Tarver stood in her own spotlight.

Her set marked a tonal shift. Featuring guitarist Ryland Holland and drummer Chris Bellew, Tarver’s stage presence carried an ease that made the show feel intimate and unforced. Audience members swayed and relaxed into a refined pop sensibility with emotional lyrics.

For me, her standout was “Don’t Eat Pray Love”—a meditation on personal transformation, the disorientation of shedding old beliefs, and the quiet ache of evolving past relationships. It captured the bittersweet beauty of introspection and the uncertainty that often accompanies growth.

Tarver did face some technical hiccups, pausing mid-performance to admit that she couldn’t hear herself through her earpiece. The audience responded with unwavering support, cheering her on and waiting patiently. It was unfortunate she couldn’t hear what the crowd was hearing, because what they heard was something special. She left the stage having etched a gentle, enduring mark.

The moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. The lights dimmed and the unmistakable opening of the Big Time Rush theme song filled the amphitheater. While I tried to maintain my professional composure as a member of the press, I’ll admit it: I squealed. I was finally living my childhood dream at a Big Time Rush concert! #NoShame.

As anticipation built on big video screens, Kendall Schmidt, James Maslow, Logan Henderson, and Carlos PenaVega made their grand entrance. The crowd erupted as the night unfolded as a showcase of stamina and entertainment. With a roughly 40-song setlist, complete with choreography performed in the Texas heat, the group crushed it! They performed every fan-favorite from their Nickelodeon days (yes, even “The Turd Song”) with vocals that were strong and dynamic.

Early in the show, the band showed gratitude to their loyal supporters by inviting VIP fans to stand side stage for the opening songs. The gesture set the tone for an evening that felt more like a shared celebration than a typical concert.

Throughout the set, the group kept the energy high and the connection strong. Fans sang along to every word. One of the most memorable moments came when the band left the main stage and sang their way through the crowd. Fans reached out for high-fives and snapped selfies as the guys headed to a more intimate stage. There, they performed a short acoustic set for those seated farther back, a thoughtful gesture.

After returning to the main stage, they invited four lucky fans up to join them for “Worldwide,” each introduced with a fun fact that added a personal touch to the serenade. And just when it seemed the night couldn’t get any more nostalgic, Jordin Sparks appeared to perform “Count on You.” Dallas, you were truly spoiled.

The show continued with high-energy performances, nostalgic nods to their TV series, and bursts of confetti. For someone who’s waited years to see them live, I can say without hesitation: it was everything I hoped for and more.