I was fortunate to see Andre Rieu in concert in Melbourne last night. It was spectacular, truly one of the most amazing concert experiences I have had. While I am not a serious Rieu fan, I have become fascinated by the devotion of his fans. I first noticed it in my newsagency a couple of years ago. So, on a whim I bought tickets to last night’s show. The three and a half hour show wold have left even the most cynical about Rieu walking our feeling better for the experience. He and his entire cast and crew provide an experience which is the ultimate concert feel-good. The audience covered all ages. Sure it was skewed to 50+, but there were plenty of young people – having a great time. No wonder his magazines, DVDs and CDs sell so well in newsagencies.
Sitting there, immersed deep in the Rieu experience, I found myself thinking about the extent to which he has created an exceptional feel-good event – almost regardless of whether you are fan of his music. This did not feel like a concert. It is hard to describe what it felt like other than great!
I think the “The Australian” newspaper summed it up well – ‘Wiggles for Grownups’
Friday night in Big W passed Andre Rieu book about “where it all started and why it took off” or a similar title, its wrapped already!. Reasonable priced book, my Christmas present for my Dad who is a fan, now I understand why- reading your experience.
Here is a great wrap-up on the Rieu phenomenon. I was also intrigued by his popularity.
http://blogs.abc.net.au/articulate/2008/11/wiggles-for-gro.html