2Cellos String Together at the National Arts Centre

Individually Luka Šulić and Stjepan Hauser are highly skilled and classcially trained cellists from Slovenia and Croatia. Together, and accompanied by an orchestra, a drummer, and an astounding lights show, they are a phenomenon.

I admittedly didn’t really know what to expect heading into this show. I knew it would be in the grand Southam Hall at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa, I knew the show had sold out, and I knew there would be strings. What I didn’t anticipate was two rock stars with enough raw eastern European sex appeal to turn this government town on its head.

The performance started off with a bang as the cellists performed a resounding rendition of the theme song to Chariots of Fire. The production quality was superb as the screen behind them lit up, the orchestra swelled, and the normally subdued NAC crowd went wild. During the break the performers explained to the audience that the first part of their performance would be sleepy, romantic, and “for the ladies”. Next up was the hauntingly melodic Speak Softly Love from the movie the Godfather. It was simply a treat for the ears and the eyes.

The highlight for me was most definitely the Game of Thrones medley. Yes, I am a fan of the show and probably biased, but there is something about the chorus that just seeps into your bones and sends a shiver down your spine. Since the duo originally made their fame as YouTube stars and recordings of their performances are widely available, have a listen/look for yourselves: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DcFpvolRN3w

The night then took an interesting, somewhat cheesy, but definitely original turn during the second half of the show. They performed a number of hits that would definitely not typically be performed by cellos accompanied by an orchestra. The energy level increased dramatically as they rocked AC/DC, Nirvana, and The Rolling Stones covers. There were even a few pelvic thrusts if you were watching closely. Although at times it seemed like the whole feel was just a little off and I wanted them to go back to haunting melodies, their talent is undeniable. In particular, their performance of Smooth Criminal by Michael Jackson was simply amazing and I can see why it went viral and propelled them to stardom around the world.

Millions of fans can’t be wrong. If they come to a town near you take the time to see the show. The Canadian leg of their Score tour ends in Vancouver on the 25th of April at the Rogers Arena.

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