André Rieu's Romantic Note

Valley View Casino Arena was awash in the pastel finery of the waltz when André Rieu and the Johann Strauss Orchestra brought their colorful musical variety show to town. Regaling the elder-leaning crowd with classical waltzes as well as pop, folk, opera, and musical theater made for a lively orchestral presentation. The orchestra played wide-ranging selections, from Evita show tunes and the Godfather theme to a Michael Jackson tribute - "The Earth Song." Three Tenors sang a virtuoso "Nessun Dorma," while three trilling sopranos took solo turns.

Though Rieu has suffered the slings and arrows of critics who find his show schlocky, there is no denying the joy he brings to millions who watch his videos and faithfully attend his concerts worldwide.

Most touching were the Rieu waltzes - "Emperor Waltz" and the beautiful "Blue Danube." At the first notes of "Blue Danube," patrons of all ages jumped up and began to waltz up and down the aisles to the lilting music, and the evening ended on this romantic note.

• Concert: André Rieu and the Johann Strauss Ochestra
• Date: December 1
• Venue: Valley View Casino Arena (formerly the Sports Arena)
• Seats: Loge 18A