A Symphony of Light and Sound: Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s “The Lost Christmas Eve” Performance

On December 15th, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) wowed audiences at Amalie Arena in Tampa, FL, with not one but two incredible performances of their holiday rock opera, “The Lost Christmas Eve.” The shows were at 2PM and 7:30PM, giving fans plenty of opportunities to dive into this musical spectacle. They’ve been around for a long time, and now have two traveling bands touring throughout the USA during the holiday season. What made this show unique was the fact that it was a hometown show for several of the artists from the surrounding areas like Lakeland, Clearwater, and Tampa Bay.

The Stage Magic:

The stage for “The Lost Christmas Eve” was a visual treat, designed to pull you right into the story. It was set up with different levels where performers could move around, adding depth and a cool 3D feel. Behind them, huge screens showed images that matched the music, making the whole experience feel like you’re part of the story.

Lighting was key in setting the mood, from soft, twinkling lights for the peaceful parts to bright, flashing lights for the rock sections. They used lasers, strobes, and spotlights that danced with the music, making each song not just something to hear but to see.

For those high-energy moments, like during “Wizards in Winter,” the stage burst into flames—controlled, of course—to match the music’s intensity. Who doesn’t love pyro during a live show?

Check out the photo that Asha Mevlana shared from TSO’s show in Austin, TX:

 

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A post shared by Asha Mevlana (@ashamevlana)

The Show’s Structure:

The concert was split into two parts, each with its own feel. The first part was all about performing “The Lost Christmas Eve” from start to finish. It starts with “Faith Noel,” setting a warm, hopeful vibe. Songs like “The Lost Christmas Eve” and “Christmas Dreams” tell the tale of a runaway finding comfort in a toy store on Christmas Eve. The music swings from calm storytelling to big, exciting rock moments, wrapping up with “The Snow Came Down,” which brings the themes of hope and redemption full circle.

After a quick break, the second part dives into a mix of TSO’s greatest hits and other holiday tunes. “Christmas Eve (Sarajevo 12/24)” and “Beethoven’s Last Night” get everyone pumped, with the audience often joining in. Songs like “O Holy Night” or “Christmas Canon” are the big emotional moments that leave you feeling something special.

To give you an idea of the size and scope of their show, check out this photo from their official account on Instagram:

The Sound Experience:

TSO’s sound was spot-on for an arena show which is no easy feat. From soaring guitar solos to lyrically driven ballads, every artist could be heard loud and clear without being overwhelming.  They balanced the electric rock with the orchestral parts perfectly letting every instrument shine. The vocals were clear and rich, with different singers taking the lead to fit each song’s emotion which was quite eclectic throughout the setlist. The front of house and live sound engineer are often overlooked but can make or break a show so we want to make sure they are recognized for the stellar sound!

Why TSO’s Show is a Holiday Must-See:

This performance by TSO isn’t just a concert; it’s an experience that combines storytelling, music, and visuals in a way few can. The double set approach lets you enjoy the narrative of “The Lost Christmas Eve” and then revel in the band’s broader catalog. It’s why TSO continues to be a standout event during the holiday season, mixing rock, orchestral, and choral music into one breathtaking show. It’s become a holiday tradition for many fans to see them live every year and if you want to feel the Christmas spirit, the TSO show is a must see!

TAP HERE TO VIEW THE REMAINING TOUR DATES AND VIEW THE TSO MERCH!

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