The Trans-Siberian Orchestra: Lights, Fire, And...Music?

I went and saw the Trans-Siberian Orchestra two years ago when some friends had an extra ticket that they offered to me. I was hesitant to go-I'm by no means anyone that would enjoy an orchestra-but after much coaxing and them ensuring that I'd enjoy it, I caved and went. Needless to say, it was one of the greatest shows I've been to.

So when I heard that the Trans-Siberian Orchestra was performing a show just 45 minutes away, I jumped on the chance to go. I convinced my fiancé that he'd love it and he finally agreed that we could spend the money ($45 per person) and go to the concert. I was thrilled!

For those of you that don't know, every year the Trans-Siberian Orchestra does a Christmas tour. It usually consists of two parts, so I'll describe them separately.

The first half of the show is very touching and heartwarming. This is the part that I look forward to seeing every year. It opens with a narration and the narrator always has that perfect voice that was just made to narrate these sorts of stories. I won't tell what the story is about because the magic comes from experiencing it, but the narration includes both the narration itself and a blend of music that furthers everything along, which I think is a really neat combination. The story is definitely a Christmas story, but its meaning is so much more significant that it's perfect for any time of the year. This is followed by a brief intermission and then the second act.

The second act is much more light-hearted. Not that the first isn't fun, but there's a theme to follow and it's supposed to be somewhat serious, but the second half belongs solely to the performers and they really have fun with it.

It's here, too, that the light show really comes in. True, the first half also included those coma-inducing lights that I mentioned earlier, but it's the second half where they really live up to their reputation. The lights move to the music and everything is in tune. They change color, they move, they flash, there are laser lights...it's just altogether splendid.

On top of that, there's fire. And when I say fire I mean FIRE. The sort of fire that is lit on stage and the incredible heat can be felt by those sitting at the back of the stadium opposite the stage (like we were). Not only was there fire, but different colors of fire (I love the green).

All in all, it's the most amazing show I've ever been to. If you have doubts or reservations about checking it out for yourself, I'd suggest you go for it. All of my friends have laughed at it and then ended up liking it when they finally went.

Warning: Don't go to the show if you are in danger of having a seizure or if bright/flashing lights and loud music really bother you.

If you want to know more about the Trans-Siberian Orchestra or about their tour dates, you can find their site here.