Just when you think you've seen all the cuteness there is, someone comes along to surprise you.  That surprise for me is Trudy Klapperich.

Trudy is a long time fan of Andre Rieu.  She & I have been emailing and calling for a number of years and we both decided it was high time I went to see Milwaukee, Andre & Trudy!

The concert was coming up fast. Andre Rieu and his JSO were coming to the US Cellular Arena, bringing their special blend of classical, magical musical tunes and fantastic pop played as only Andre and his happy orchestra can play them.   I stayed at the Milwaukee Catholic Home where Trudy lives.  They have guest rooms which compete with any 5 star hotel as well as a friendly staff.  Kudos to the chef.  I was apprehensive when Trudy said we would eat at her home rather than a restaurant, but my fears were put to rest the first night when my choices for dinner were Fresh Salmon, Beef Wellington or Homemade Ravioli.

Trudy, who is 94 years young asked me to walk with her "A few blocks" to her favorite Frozen Custard shop.  Little did I know what is a few blocks to her, is about a mile to the rest of us. We had a grand time and after finishing our custard, we walked and shopped and talked some more.  It was a good relaxing & exercising time.

Trudy & I also visited the Milwaukee Art Museum, a building that looks as if it's roof is wings. It is stunning both inside and out.  We walked from the museum to a nearby restaurant, Pieces of Eight where we met with Trudy's son Jim. We all opted for the seafood buffet and enjoyed the food as well as each other's company.  It all made for a pleasant afternoon.

We also visited Villa Terrace an Italian Renaissance style villa that was designed by David Adler in 1923 for Lloyd & Agnes Smith.

The big ticket was of course, Andre Rieu & his JSO.  Jean, Trudy's lovely daughter in law drove us to the concert.  We were some of the first people in the venue.  We met with Dan the Banner Man and his elegant wife Alice as we made our way to our seats.  Johnny & Mario were in the crowd and gave a cheerful hello to us, and smiled for the camera. Next we met Marilyn, Trudy's friend. A quick hello to Bela and it was soon time for the lights to dim.

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76 Trombones filled the air as Andre & his JSO came down the aisles. Looking resplendent in their tuxedos the men charmed us all and the ladies in their gowns were prettier than any model in any magazine.  Best of all, the music was above expectations and the entertainment was top level.  Suzan sang I Belong To Me from the musical Elizabeth.  Carmen once again sang O Mio Babbino Caro, her lush voice giving life to the emotion of the song.  Mirusia on her first ever tour with Andre Rieu, floated from 'down under' as from the heavens, an Angel, her voice wafting over the crowd enchanting us all with her crystal clear soprano delivering Concerto pour une Voix.

The Plantin Tenors are always wonderful.  Their voices complement each other and please the ear.  Singing Funiculì, Funiculà & Torna a Surrienta, wonderful Italian songs.

A real show stopper is Marcel Falize featured on drum in Maurice Ravel's Bolero.  This song must be heard live to fully appreciate it's beauty.  The audience sat silent & still wanting to hear each nuance, every tap of the drum sticks, each new JSO instrument. A standing ovation with long lasting applause was the reward for this stunning music. We did not want it to end.

But end it did.  After many encores, waltzes and standing ovations it was time for Rieu & Crew to leave.  We waived goodbye as they departed the stage.  Trudy, Jean and I then went to their hotel for a personal Thank You and Good Night.

Adding to the cuteness factor was a dance recital put on for the residents at Milwaukee Catholic Home.

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All too soon it was time to go.  Trudy & I want to attend more concerts together and keep the fun going.  And who knows?  December is not that far off.

Happiness Always, Sally

 

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