FAIRBORN — “The Lost Christmas Eve” is returning to the stage for the first time since 2013 as the Trans-Siberian Orchestra makes an appearance the the Nutter Center Dec. 7.
But despite the return of an old favorite, audiences can expect an all-new, dazzling spectacle packed with pyrotechnics, lasers and the incredible storytelling synonymous with TSO. The celebration continues with a high-energy second set featuring the group’s greatest hits and fan favorites.
“The Lost Christmas Eve” is a play based on TSO’s CD of the same name. The story of a bitter old man reuniting with his lost son on Christmas Eve expects to resonate with people over the holiday season. Once a rising star, he traded love, family, and joy for a life of solitude and regret. Then, a chance encounter with a mysterious girl led him to a life-altering reunion with his lost son, whom he abandoned decades ago. The ending of the play ties together themes of generosity, kindness, and forgiveness for a poignant concert that attracts a wide range of audiences.
TSO remains true to the vision of its late founder, Paul O’Neill, by being one of rock’s most generous bands. This year the band will surpass $20 million donated to charity, a testament to its ongoing commitment to philanthropy. For every ticket sold, at least $1 is donated to charity; that means with its 20 millionth fan attending a show on this tour, TSO will be hitting not just a concert attendance record, but a charitable milestone as well.
“When I was working on Lost Christmas Eve with Paul O’Neill, we talked a lot about time,” TSO’s music director and lead guitarist, Al Pitrelli said. “He said that losing money or things wasn’t as bad as losing time. Material losses can be recovered, but you can never get time back. That’s why he always thought it was never too late to change. Never too late for forgiveness. People can make things right, forgive each other, and reconnect. ‘The Lost Christmas Eve’ is about that hope: it’s never too late for any of us.”
To commemorate its 20th anniversary, Rhino will be releasing special vinyl pressings of “The Lost Christmas Eve” now available at retail stores nationwide.
Tickets for both Dec. 7 shows — 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. — are on sale at www.ticketmaster.com and the arena box office with a portion of the proceeds benefiting The Greene Medical Foundation, AIM for the Handicapped, and Miami Valley Spina Bifida Organization.
