Anyone wishing to understand the André Rieu phenomenon would do well to begin with LIVE IN DUBLIN. The charismatic violinist and conductor is always at his best leading the forces of the Johann Strauss Orchestra before an enthusiastic audience. The secret of his success? A frothy mix of lighter-than-air musical confections culled from a varied repertoire of waltzes and polkas, old favorites as well as newer compositions, and adaptations of familiar themes and well-known pop tunes, all delivered with energy, style, and a healthy dose of showmanship. The program includes elegant accounts of "Dark Eyes," "The Merry Widow Waltz," and, of course, "The Blue Danube Waltz," as well as rousing renditions of "Thunder and Lightning," "Song of the Volga Boatman," and "Radetzky March." John Sheahan of The Dubliners makes a guest appearance on his own composition, "The Marino Waltz," as well as the Irish folk tunes "The Last Rose" and "Irish Washerwoman." The warm reception from the crowd leaves no doubt as to why Rieu is known as "The Waltz King of Europe."