Photos by Rebecca Clark | Review by Renee Clark Quade
On December 13th, the Landmark Theater in Syracuse, NY, became a haven for holiday enchantment as Lindsey Stirling graced the stage with her Snow Waltz tour. Stirling, celebrated for her extraordinary violin mastery, transformed the venue into a mesmerizing spectacle that seamlessly blended the magic of Christmas, the theatrics of Broadway, and the wonder of Cirque du Soleil.
From the moment the lights dimmed, Stirling’s multifaceted talent took center stage. Her violin skills, a force on their own, became an integral part of a performance that transcended the boundaries of a traditional concert. Stirling showcased her versatile talent as a dancer and performer, turning the stage into a canvas for a breathtaking fusion of sound and movement.
What sets Stirling apart is her fearless aerial performances, where she flawlessly played her violin suspended above the stage, even daring to hang upside down on a ring. The audacious display of skill added a layer of awe to an already spectacular show, creating a unique blend of concert, Broadway musical, and Cirque du Soleil extravaganza.
The set design itself was a testament to the holiday spirit, seamlessly weaving together nostalgic and modern elements. The stage came alive with the magic of Christmas, as Stirling and her dancers transported the audience into a world where every corner was adorned with festive charm.
Stirling’s connection with the audience was a highlight, especially when she involved them in creating a TikTok for an unreleased song. Despite the absence of music, the lyrics gave a tantalizing glimpse into what promises to be another Stirling masterpiece.
The show’s fun moments, including Tour Manager Erich Jackson’s hilarious turn as a grumpy holiday helper (OhChristmasMe) and a boat race with dancers pulling boat props across the stage, added a delightful touch to the evening. Stirling’s willingness to play children’s instruments with her band showcased a playful side that resonated with the audience.
Amidst the spectacle, Stirling took poignant moments to share personal stories. She spoke about her journey in arranging songs, her encounters with criticism, and her deepening belief in angels. During one of these moments Stirling shared her deepening belief in angels, a faith strengthened after her father and best friend passed away. She reflects on questioning their presence and has had numerous experiences leading her to believe that angels are closer than she thought. Stirling recounts a moment of discouragement when she read a negative article about her violin skills but found comfort from a neighbor who unexpectedly praised her, reminiscent of her father’s mannerisms. This reinforced her belief that angels communicate with and comfort us in various ways, often unrecognized.
Stirling said, “I really do feel like not only are angels heard up high, but I believe that they are around all of us all the time.”
One of the most touching segments involved Stirling reflecting on her favorite movie, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” She conveyed a powerful message about the significance of seemingly simple lives, emphasizing that life’s true value lies beyond external achievements. “It’s not about the violin. It’s not about the job,” Stirling said. “It’s not about the amount of followers you have, or how many friends you have at school. It’s not about any of those adjectives that oftentimes we use to describe ourselves what life is really about, is that underneath all of that? Just like my neighbor said to me, every single one of you is magic.”
A highlight of some of the songs performed were: “Feliz Navidad,” “Sleigh Ride,” “Warmer in the Winter,” “Crystallize,” “Magic,” “Carol of the Bells,” “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” “Santa Baby” and “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.”
As the night drew to a close, Stirling, adorned in a magnificent costume with angel wings, delivered a striking performance of “I Wonder as I Wander.” The deep blue silhouette lighting created a visual masterpiece, leaving the audience in awe.
Lindsey Stirling’s Snow Waltz tour is a magical journey that touches the heart and soul. From the breathtaking performances to the heartfelt stories, Stirling creates an emotional experience that resonates long after the final note. If you seek inspiration to embrace the holiday spirit, Stirling’s show is an absolute must-see, a testament to the transformative power of music and the magic that resides within us all.
Lindsey Stirling Photo Gallery
