THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS OF THE TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA

I have been a huge fan of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra since I first saw them in Nashville early 2000s. I moved to Michigan in 2002, and the radio station I worked for in Grand Rapids had been the presenting sponsor of their show since they first appeared in Grand Rapids in the 90’s. From 2002 until 2017 I went to every TSO show at the Van Andel, and a couple at the Silverdome. For me, every year seeing TSO and their one-of-a-kind light show, made Christmas special. This is a band of extraordinary musicians who take you on a musical journey with their original Christmas Stories, they mesmerize you with awesome lasers and lights while providing a musical soundtrack that warms your heart. These are some of the most awesome people I’ve ever worked with.

Paul O'Neill the founder, created, wrote, and produced this show every year, sadly Paul died a couple years ago, but his team continues the tradition. One interesting thing about this band that most are not aware of. They create the custom light show. All the light trusses are custom designed by TSO, as are the extravagant sets they perform on. Those light trusses move like transformers in different shapes and angles. This is the only band I’ve ever seen that makes it snow in the arena (soap suds) as it falls through the laser beams projected from the stage it almost feels like a winter storm. And every year it’s a new totally different light and laser show. If the sound doesn’t move you, (trust me it will) the light show certainly will. Enjoy the gallery of photos I’ve taken over the years of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. And if you ever get a chance to go see them, take it. They are offering a virtual version of their show online this holiday season.