[Vienna, VA.] Stirling’s Artemis Tour is among the first few acts to grace Wolf Trap after cautiously opening during a pandemic world. [This particular tour date had no opening act.]
Having actually seen Lindsey Stirling once before for her “Warmer in the Winter” Christmas tour in 2017, I was actually looking forward to seeing what a non-holiday themed tour would be like. I was not disappointed. Her shows are so visual when it comes to costuming, lighting, and movement. And the music itself, being mostly instrumental (mixed with dub-step), is enjoyable even though there’s not much to sing along with; fans will definitely recognize a few favorite songs in the show.
As the show began, fog rolled out and the stage was bathed in crimson light. Lindsey entered the stage, costumed as Artemis (from Greek mythology, the goddess of the hunt and the moon). Her violin was even cleverly in the shape of a bow. Her dancers accompanied her, moving in unison to the song “Artemis.” The following songs progressed through “Til the Light Goes Out” and “Darkside.”
Periods in between songs were set aside for talking to the audience, sharing her philosophy on light and darkness, her music and touring, and anecdotes about her life. One of the questions she’d asked was for a show of hands on whether this was the audience’s first concert since the start of the covid. A lot of hands popped into the air. It was definitely my first show since the pandemic. There is also some comedy relief, as Stirling interacts with her crew and the audience members.
Overall, I enjoy Lindsey Stirling shows. They’re full of messages of hope, aspiration, perseverance, and overall belief in oneself. And, the shows are for everyone; even though the audience definitely has its share of young girls, you will find a range of age, sex, and ethnicity there (as Lindsey herself pointed out). Go check her out if you ever get the chance.
