Venue- The Smart Financial Center, Sugarland, TX
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Tour
My husband and I were given tickets to see this performance as our Christmas present. As I had seen all the previous reviews from others from concerts in other states, we went with low expectations but boy, were we surprised ! The music was totally awesome! The group played all but 3 Christmas songs. They sounded just like the CDs . To the complaints of the video being shown behind the group, especially of the space shuttle, that was the background for their first song "Into The Atmosphere" Most of the other videos went well with the songs. I thought the lighting and special effects were fine, even snow!
As to the " plug" for Chip Davis' music, that was briefly during intermission. You didnt have to listen to it.
We were up pretty high and the binoculars my hubby brought were perfect to really see the musicians expressions. And at least in this performance, they all seemed to really enjoy what they were doing. I saw several smiles many times! Phenomenal drummer, violinist and sythesizer player, but all were awesome! The pianist had a short opening dialogue with some humor and anecdotes and he also introduced all the band members.
So, take home message!!... Din't be thwarted by all those other reviews! Unbeknownst to me, and possibly you, there are 2 MS groups. The RED and the GREEN. We had the latter. Maybe that was the difference .
The Smart Financial Center is brand new and great acoustics as well overall beautiful venue! GO if you get a chance and take your binoculars!
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