Trans-Siberian Orchestra

We couldn’t think of anything new to say about the Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s annual visit, so here’s what we said last year:

“Imagine if Queensrÿche were to perform something called Operation: Nütcracker and you’re in the ballpark of what the Trans-Siberian Orchestra might have to offer. Since 1996, Paul O’Neill, Robert Kinkel and ex-Savatage vocalist (we just had to mention that) Jon Oliva have been slicing, dicing and mostly shredding traditional holiday music to create their unique spin on the seasonal standards. By pairing heavy-metal guitars and drums with full orchestration, the TSO have sold millions of albums and become something of a seasonal standard in their own right. It’s definitely not your mother’s Christmas music, but it might appeal to your mullet-haired, Camaro-driving older brother.”

Need we say more?

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra will bring the holiday rock to the Pepsi Arena for two shows (yes, they’re that popular) this Monday (Dec. 26). Performances are at 2:30 and 7:30 PM, and tickets range from $30 to $50. For more information, contact the arena’s box office at 487-2000.

Holiday Vacation Daze

Christmas is here! And so is Hanukkah! And Kwanzaa! And solstice! And Festivus! Hurrah! Yippee! Ho ho ho! You know what this means: The kids are out of school!

Uh-oh. The kids are out of school. How the hell are you going to keep the youngsters out of your hair, and entertained, without going to the mall everyday? That’s an easy one: Steamer No. 10 Theatre’s Holiday Vacation Daze.

Holiday Vacation Daze is a series of late-morning/early-afternoon performances by enchanting performers for kids of all ages. On Tuesday (Dec. 27), Andy Morse the Music Man (pictured) will mix traditional songs and stories with his own tunes, to create a “great show” at 10 AM for “preschool and early elementary school-aged children.” On Wednesday (Dec. 28), magician Dave McDonald will be up to his clever tricks, suitable for kids and adults, for two shows, at 10 AM and 1 PM. On Dec. 29, the Puppet People will stage their version of A Christmas Carol at 10 AM and 1 PM; on Dec. 30, Roger the Jester—a silent comedian—will jest his jests at 10 AM and 1 PM.

Holiday Vacation Daze will be held at Steamer No. 10 Theatre (500 Western Ave., Albany) Dec. 27-30. Tickets per show are $12 adults, $10 kids and seniors. For more info, call 438-5503.