Review: Andre Rieu and the Seekers at Rod Laver Arena
HE will never be cool but André Rieu has a knack for giving his fans what they want to hear. And last night, at Rod Laver Arena, thousands of them got an earful of what the Dutch maestro calls "beautiful music" - waltzes to swoon over, marches to clap to and sparkling operetta aimed squarely at the heart.
Rieu had them on side from the moment he strode down the centre aisle to 76 Trombones, his image magnified on giant video screens and the Johann Strauss orchestra following in his wake.
"We are in the most joyful city in Australia," he declared. But the chocolate box images looming behind Rieu’s company of singers and musicians spoke of Europe, a world of old fashioned charm where the soundtrack almost demands thrilling trills.
Rieu is a genial ringmaster, sending fake snowflakes falling on the shoulders of his audience when he is not sawing away at his Stradivarius.
And if the happy snaps of grandchildren get a bit cheesy, he brings the show back into line so every number zings with energy.
Highlights included the Snow Waltz, Time to Say Goodbye and You Are My Heart's Delight. And inviting the Seekers to join him on stage is an inspired move. They ground this Euro-fantasia in solid Australian songs, punching out rousing versions of The Carnival is Over and Georgy Girl.
Rieu laid strings lightly on these classics and worked wonders with Bruce Woodley’s I Am Australia. The music soared, the crowd roared and Rieu knew he’d done it again. He’d generated joy ... Andre Rieu will play a second show tonight.
I don't like the way he describes Andre as "sawing away at his Stradivarius". Obviously doesn't appreciate what a great violinist Andre is.
ReplyDeleteDon't worry about the crabby journo - he's a dumbell. The audience said it all. Not one spare seat despite it being an undesirable Tuesday evening concert, past the bedtime of many in the audience, & a very cold rainy night. 14,000 from very old disabled to younc children, & from all over Australia, loved every minute & sang, clapped along and brought the roof down repeatedly. When the Seekers came on stage, it was incredible. Everyone knew the words & sang along. AR & the Seekers were pleased & proud, as was the audience. The evening sing-a-long came to a climax with the extended encores including the last song, Vera Lynn's "We'll meet again", which seemed to surprise all on stage except AR. As for "We are Australian"- WOW - pride & tears overflowed during the enthiusiasm. No-one wanted AR to leave & he obliged with encore after encore, even after "Adieu". Andre's music score was perfect, beautiful & so well balanced. Mirusia's "Time to say goodbye" was the best ever. The tenors highlight was "Hearts Desire" - spell binding. Before the concert Gary came out to greet his rels from Tassie & generously allowed photos & gave autographs. Also the Italian stallion, Cord & the harpist came out to tune-up. We sat just behind Keith Potger's family. BTW, the backdrop projections were amazing. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Best live concert we've been to. Robyn
ReplyDeleteI agree with everything Anonymous said including the bit about the crabby journo. I think Aussie journo's don't know what to make of Andre and so they make snide remarks. But what a night (and I'm talking Wednesday night now) Wish I was going to all his other concerts. oh well I can dream.
ReplyDeleteWednesday Night here in Melbourne was a night to remember. Andre's concerts never cease to delight and surprise all regardless of age, with his brilliance and humility. Thank you to The JSO The Tenors Kimi Mirusia and Kalki you are all wonderful with your talent and enthusiasm. The Seekers were a dream, thankyou for coming together you were wonderful. It would be refreshing if in future Andre was shown a little more respect from our media. DaleQ Victorian Friendship Group
ReplyDeleteI am getting worried that Andre is pushing himself again-even God took one day off each week-I would like the whole group to go on forever with andre;s direction and arrangements He certainly does make the world a better place
ReplyDelete