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London's Eventim Apollo transformed into a glittering snowglobe of festive cheer on Monday night, all thanks to the electrifying violinist and holiday queen, Lindsey Stirling. Fresh off her "Snow Waltz" album release, Stirling, a pioneer in the world of electronic violin, brought her Christmas extravaganza across the pond for the first time, and what a joyous sleigh ride it was!
The night shimmered into existence with the iconic "Sleigh Ride," instantly conjuring visions of prancing reindeer and crackling fireplaces. Stirling, a dancer as much as she is a musician, wove her magic effortlessly – harmonizing with the violin, executing flawless choreography, and even lending her voice to carols like "Warmer in the Winter" and the ethereal "O Holy Night." This is no ordinary violinist, mind you; Stirling has humbly blossomed into one of the 21st century's most innovative stars, captivating millions with her unique vision. Over 13.7 million YouTube subscribers tune in to witness her captivating performances, and her videos have amassed a staggering 3.8 billion views. Live audiences haven't been immune to her charm either – she's captivated over 800,000 people on her headline tours, and her co-headline tour with Evanescence was named one of Live Nation's best-selling amphitheatre tours of 2018.
A surprise highlight emerged when Stirling introduced her miniature violin, affectionately named "Pickle." The playful banter that followed was pure delight, as she challenged her band to tackle Christmas classics on miniaturized instruments, a tiny drum kit and a pint-sized piano. The crowd erupted in laughter and applause, charmed by the sheer whimsy of it all, a testament to Stirling's infectious charisma and ability to connect with her audience on a personal level.
The setlist was a treasure trove of holiday favorites, from the sunny cheer of "Feliz Navidad" to the mischievous grin of "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch." Each song was infused with Stirling's signature blend of energy and grace, her violin painting vibrant sonic landscapes against a backdrop of dazzling visuals.
As the final notes of "Magic" faded away, the audience, still buzzing with the afterglow of Stirling's holiday spell, knew they had witnessed something special. It was more than just a concert; it was a heartwarming reminder of the joy, wonder, and playful spirit that make the season so cherished. Lindsey Stirling didn't just perform at Hammersmith Apollo – she transformed it into a whimsical wonderland, leaving everyone with a smile wider than Santa's hat and memories warmer than a mug of cocoa, solidifying her position as a truly groundbreaking artist who continues to redefine the world of music.
Words by Sal F.
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