André Rieu

André Rieu Live in Concert at The O2 Arena, Prague!

Prepare to be swept away by an evening of unparalleled musical enchantment as the King of Waltz, André Rieu, brings his magnificent Johann Strauss Orchestra and an array of dazzling soloists to the iconic O2 Arena in Prague on Friday, 29th May 2026. This is not just a concert; it’s a spectacular celebration of joy, romance, and timeless melodies that promises an unforgettable experience for music lovers of all ages. André Rieu’s concerts are renowned for their joyous atmosphere, lavish productions, and the infectious passion he brings to every performance. Join thousands of fans for a magical night under the chandeliers, where classical music is made accessible, thrilling, and profoundly moving. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to witness a true master at work in one of Europe’s premier entertainment venues.

About André Rieu

André Rieu, born on 1st October 1949 in Maastricht, Netherlands, is a globally celebrated violinist, conductor, and composer, affectionately known as the “King of Waltz.” His career, spanning over four decades, has been defined by a unique ability to bring classical music and waltzes to a vast international audience, making them accessible and utterly delightful. From humble beginnings, Rieu founded his own orchestra, the Johann Strauss Orchestra, in 1987, initially with just twelve musicians. Today, it is one of the largest private orchestras in the world, renowned for its vibrant sound and the sheer joy it exudes.

Rieu’s meteoric rise to international fame began in the late 1990s, with his recording of “The Second Waltz.” This track, along with his captivating live performances, captured the hearts of millions. His concerts are not merely musical recitals; they are grand spectacles. Imagine glittering costumes, breathtaking stage sets that transport audiences to opulent ballrooms and picturesque landscapes, and a palpable sense of celebration. André Rieu masterfully blends beloved classical pieces with rousing waltzes, popular melodies, and even iconic film scores, creating a diverse and engaging repertoire that appeals to a broad spectrum of tastes.

Notable hits and performances that have cemented his legacy include his rendition of Strauss’s “Blue Danube Waltz,” which has become a signature piece, and his unforgettable interpretations of compositions by Lehár, Tchaikovsky, and Verdi. He has also achieved commercial success with albums that frequently top classical and popular music charts worldwide. Rieu’s dedication to performance is remarkable; he tours extensively, playing to packed stadiums and arenas across continents. His philosophy is simple: music should be fun, uplifting, and shared with as many people as possible. His concerts are a testament to this belief, offering a truly immersive and joyous escape into a world of beautiful music and pure entertainment.

Venue Information

The O2 Arena in Prague stands as a beacon of modern entertainment, a state-of-the-art venue designed to host a dazzling array of world-class events, from thrilling sporting competitions to spectacular concerts by the biggest names in music. Located in the vibrant Holešovice district, this multi-purpose arena boasts exceptional acoustics and a flexible seating configuration, ensuring that every guest experiences the performance with clarity and comfort. Its impressive capacity allows for grand-scale productions, making it the perfect setting for André Rieu’s lavish concerts. With excellent transport links and a range of amenities, the O2 Arena provides a seamless and memorable experience for all attendees. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

An evening with André Rieu is a full-blown sensory delight, a meticulously crafted experience designed to leave you feeling uplifted and exhilarated. Prepare for a programme that seamlessly weaves together the grandest classical masterpieces with the most infectious and beloved waltzes, ensuring a programme that is both sophisticated and irresistibly danceable. While no two concerts are precisely alike, you can anticipate a rich tapestry of musical moments. Expect to hear iconic pieces that have become synonymous with André Rieu’s name, such as the effervescent “Blue Danube Waltz” by Johann Strauss II, a piece that invariably transforms the arena into a swirling sea of joy. You might also be treated to the romantic strains of Lehár’s “Merry Widow Waltz” or the stirring melodies from Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake.”

Beyond the waltzes, Rieu’s repertoire frequently includes beloved operetta excerpts, stirring patriotic anthems that evoke a sense of collective pride, and poignant melodies from well-known films, all performed with the orchestra’s signature sweeping romanticism. His soloists, a talented ensemble of sopranos and tenors, will undoubtedly enchant you with their powerful voices and charismatic stage presence, performing arias and duets that add further layers of vocal brilliance to the evening.

André Rieu himself is a captivating performer, leading his orchestra with an energy that is nothing short of electric. He is known for his charm, his humour, and his genuine connection with his audience. He often steps forward to address the crowd, sharing anecdotes and encouraging participation, making everyone feel like a personal guest at a grand ball. The performance style is characterized by its opulence. Expect to see the Johann Strauss Orchestra in their resplendent uniforms, and the stage adorned with elaborate sets – perhaps a Parisian café, a Venetian canal, or a fairytale castle – all illuminated by spectacular lighting.

The concert is typically around two to two-and-a-half hours in duration, including an interval. This allows ample time for André and his orchestra to showcase a diverse range of musical styles and for the audience to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere. The crescendo of the evening often involves an extended finale where the orchestra, soloists, and audience come together in a joyous celebration, leaving you with a lasting feeling of warmth and wonder.

FAQs

Q1: Will André Rieu perform his most famous waltzes at the Prague concert? Absolutely! André Rieu is renowned for his extensive repertoire of waltzes, and you can be certain that iconic pieces like the “Blue Danube Waltz” and other Strauss family masterpieces will feature prominently in the programme. These are the tunes that have earned him the title “King of Waltz” and are guaranteed to be a highlight of the evening.

Q2: Are there opportunities for audience participation during the concert? André Rieu thrives on audience interaction. While there isn’t structured dancing for the entire audience, his concerts are incredibly uplifting and encourage a sense of collective joy. You’ll often find André encouraging clapping, singing along to familiar tunes, and he may even invite audience members to join him on stage for a brief moment of celebration. The atmosphere is always one of shared enjoyment.

Q3: What kind of music can I expect besides waltzes? Beyond the beloved waltzes, André Rieu’s concerts are a celebration of popular classical music. You can anticipate hearing rousing operetta excerpts, patriotic anthems, beloved melodies from musicals and films, and sometimes even operatic arias. His programmes are diverse and designed to appeal to a wide range of musical tastes, always performed with the orchestra’s signature grand and romantic flair.

Q4: How long does an André Rieu concert typically last? An André Rieu concert, including an intermission, generally lasts between two and two-and-a-half hours. This generous duration allows for a comprehensive programme that showcases the orchestra’s versatility and provides ample time for memorable musical moments and audience engagement.

Q5: Will André Rieu and his orchestra perform in their traditional attire? Yes, a significant part of the visual spectacle of an André Rieu concert is the traditional attire. The Johann Strauss Orchestra is famous for its elaborate and colourful costumes, often reminiscent of 18th and 19th-century formal wear. This adds to the grandeur and authentic atmosphere of the performance.

Q6: Is the music performed by André Rieu and his orchestra suitable for children? André Rieu’s concerts are wonderfully family-friendly and are often enjoyed by children. The music is generally uplifting, accessible, and performed with a great sense of fun and spectacle. The visual elements of the show, including the costumes and stage sets, are also very engaging for younger audiences. However, we always advise parents to consider their own child’s temperament and attention span when deciding if a concert is suitable.