Like they’ve done with past outings, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra will once again split into two touring companies – East and West – in order to cover more markets than a single Orchestra could.

Although their touring style remains the same for the 2002 season, TSO is venturing into arenas for the first time. More than a quarter of the shows will take place in larger venues to accommodate the increasing demand for the limited-run tour.

Marrying old-fashioned Christmas carols with producer/lyricist Paul O’Neill’s story of an angel sent to earth to find “the one thing that represents everything good that has been done in the name of this day,” Trans-Siberian brings a unique blend of rock and opera to the stage.

“Christmas has always evoked the most powerful emotions and passions in people,” O’Neill said. “It’s those emotions that draws people together and it’s this sort of music that serves as a conduit for the magic and spirit of the holidays.”

Check out trans-siberian.com for information on how to take advantage of the group’s ticket pre-sale for the Christmas Eve & Other Stories tour.

In addition to the Christmas tour, plans are also underway for TSO to debut their newest rock opera, Beethoven’s Last Night. Their first non-holiday tour will be a full-scale musical production, bringing together a classical orchestra along with the fury of a hard rock band, surrounded by electric lighting.

Stayed tuned to pollstar.com for tour information for Beethoven’s Last Night.