URGENT UPDATE: Mannheim Steamroller is set to light up Wilkes-Barre this Saturday, December 2, 2023, at the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts. This highly anticipated return marks the band’s first performance in the area in over a decade, with the show kicking off at 7 p.m. Tickets are available starting at $38 plus fees, and fans are eager to experience the festive magic once again.
The excitement builds as 15 talented musicians take the stage, showcasing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of stunning multimedia elements. This unique fusion of sound and visuals has made Mannheim Steamroller a household name during the holiday season, famously blending orchestral instruments with modern synthesizers.
Founder Chip Davis reflected on the band’s journey, stating, “I remember when I came out with my first Christmas album in 1984 followed by our first tour. Back then, many in the music industry said focusing on Christmas just wouldn’t work.” He added, “Now, 40 years later, we are still going strong. I want to thank our fans for making us part of their holiday tradition.”
The Wilkes-Barre show will feature beloved tracks from several of the band’s acclaimed Christmas albums, appealing to multi-generational audiences who often attend together. Mannheim Steamroller is renowned for its holiday music, with over 31 million of their 41 million album sales attributed to Christmas-themed tracks.
The band is not only known for festive tunes; it has also ventured into various genres, including a Grammy Award-winning new age album in 1992. Recently, in September, they released “Night Song,” the fourth album in their “Ambience” series, designed to promote wellness and relaxation through soothing sounds recorded in nature.
The name Mannheim Steamroller is inspired by an 18th-century musical technique known as the “Mannheim crescendo,” and it also pays homage to the German city visited by Mozart. The band operates out of Omaha, Nebraska, and has captivated audiences nationwide with their seasonal performances.
Tickets can be purchased through ticketmaster.com, kirbycenter.org, by phone at 570-826-1100, or directly at the box office located at 71 Public Square. Note that the box office will close on Thanksgiving Day and will reopen on Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additionally, doors will open at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday for concert-goers.
As the holiday season approaches, Mannheim Steamroller’s performances are a cherished tradition for many families, making this event a must-see. The band is also set to perform in Williamsport on December 4, continuing its holiday tour across the country.
Don’t miss out on this chance to witness a performance that has become synonymous with Christmas cheer. Share this news with friends and family to ensure everyone is part of this festive experience!
