Living in Florida can pose a number of challenges, and getting into the Christmas spirit can definitely be one of them. While most of the country is enjoying cool weather and even snow, Floridians are accustomed to celebrating the holidays in mid-80 temperatures. Tonight, I had the opportunity to rectify this problem, and the solution came in the form of Lindsey Stirling and her Snow Waltz Tour.
As I arrived at the prestigious Dr. Phillips Center For The Performing Arts, it was clear that I wasn’t the only one in search of a festive holiday experience. The venue had sold out days ago and as the patrons began streaming in, I noticed couples and families alike. Many of those in attendance were wearing their best yuletide attire and stopped for photos in front of the lavish Christmas tree that stood proudly near the center stairway.
Most people had already found their way to their seats by the time the 8:00pm start time arrived. The lights dimmed and the stage came to life. A soft blue light illuminated the front of a small house, and a keyboardist and drummer could be seen perched upon the rooftop. Stirling entered the stage, violin in hand, after exiting the front door of the cozy little abode. She was joined by 4 dancers as they performed the classic “Sleigh Ride.” “Crazy For Christmas,” one of the originals on the new Snow Waltz album, was served up next. During the latter part of the song, Stirling was showered with confetti and the lower portion of her white dress was ripped away to reveal a sportier, peach colored dress with large gold rings at the base.
For the performance of 2017’s “Warmer In The Winter,” Stirling’s tour manager, Erich Jackson, was brought onto the stage dressed as a miserable Christmas tree. A saxophonist could be seen through one of the windows and when Stirling went in to join him, Jackson attempted to flee, but was promptly brought back by security. Jackson reluctantly held Stirling’s violin while she resumed singing. Lindsey took a moment to thank the crowd for coming out and mentioned that she was nervous about wearing a dress held together by magnets after eating a big meal. She also confessed to have been celebrating Christmas since February.
A highlight of the show came when Stirling, keyboardist Ryan Riveros, and drummer Drew Steen played a medley of Christmas classics. What makes this a highlight you might ask. The entire medley was performed on miniature instruments. As an added treat, Stirling even through in a snippet of “The Devil Went Down To Georgia.” Stirling’s acrobatics were also on display and during “Santa Baby” she, along with several dancers, twirled upon giant rings above the stage. Stirling also flew high during the performance of 2012′ “Crystalize.”
The setlist for this show was phenomenal, combining Stirling originals with the classic Christmas favorites. The encore of the night was a cover of legendary composer John Jacob Niles’ “I Wonder As I Wander.” This show is a must-see affair for the entire family. Whether it’s Lindsey’s extraordinary violin work, her majestic voice or the fabulous showmanship displayed by everyone involved, this is a spectacular event that should not be missed. The tour continues through December, so don’t be a Grinch and check it out.
Lindsey Stirling: Violin, Vocals
Drew Steen: Drums
Ryan Riveros: Keyboard, Guitar, Saxophone
Setlist:
1.Sleigh Ride
2.Crazy For Christmas
3.Warmer In The Winter
4.Let It Snow
5.Joy To The World/I Saw Three Ships
6.Jingle Bells / Deck The Halls / Frosty The Snowman / It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas / Harry Potter Theme / Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer / Jingle Bell Rock
7.Feliz Navidad
8.O Holy Night
9.Angels We Have Heard On High
10.Crystalize
11.Snow Waltz
12.Dance For The Sugar Plum Fairy
13.Santa Baby
14.Carol Of The Bells
15.Ice Storm
16.God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
17.You’re A Mean One, Mister Grinch
18.Magic
Encore:
19.I Wonder As I Wander
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I’ve had a love for photography since I was young. Whether it was a Polaroid or a Kodak 110, I was always the kid with the camera. My love of music goes back even further. Nothing beats being at a show when those lights go down and the crowd goes nuts.
