The Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) is set to dazzle audiences this winter with its annual holiday rock opera, featuring new surprises alongside classic favorites. Known for its unique blend of rock and classical music, the orchestra has been captivating fans for over 27 years, showcasing elaborate special effects and pyrotechnics that surpass those of many touring acts. This year, TSO aims to push the boundaries even further.
Guitarist and musical director Al Pitrelli expressed the group’s desire to create an unforgettable experience for both returning fans and newcomers. “We wanted to do something to put them back on their heels from the jump,” he said. The aim is to ensure that even the loyal audience, affectionately dubbed “repeat offenders,” experiences a sense of wonder. For first-time attendees, the goal is straightforward: “I just like watching their jaws drop,” Pitrelli added.
Exciting New Elements in This Year’s Show
The centerpiece of this year’s tour is “Ghosts of Christmas Eve,” a beloved television film from 1999. TSO has infused the production with fresh elements, including a reconfigured stage and rare song selections such as “Night Enchanted” and “Winter Palace.” The second act will celebrate the 25th anniversary of “Beethoven’s Last Night,” TSO’s inaugural non-Christmas rock opera which first toured in 2012.
Drummer Jeff Plate, who has been with TSO since its formation from the band Savatage in the mid-1990s, emphasized the importance of evolving the show. “The challenge when we go into these tours is to change it up,” he noted. “There’s always something new visually on stage. We have a lot of music to choose from, so we can really juggle things and keep it different.”
Celebrating a Milestone
The celebration of “Beethoven’s Last Night” marks a significant moment for TSO. The album combines the works of classical greats like Beethoven, Mozart, and Chopin with original compositions from the late Paul O’Neill, TSO’s co-founder. “I remember recording some of those pieces and thinking, ‘This ain’t easy,'” Pitrelli recalled. “Paul’s usage and arrangements of the great composers’ material were spot-on in the context of that story.”
Fans can expect a concentrated presentation of the album during this tour, introducing many to songs they may not have previously heard. “I’m excited because I really love a lot of those songs,” Pitrelli said, highlighting the anticipation surrounding the upcoming performances.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra will perform at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on December 27 at Little Caesars Arena, located at 2645 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Tickets can be obtained through 313-471-7000 or 313Presents.com.
In addition to TSO, the weekend music schedule features a variety of events across Detroit and nearby cities, ensuring that music lovers have numerous options to choose from.
