The Rady Shell, long beloved by locals and artists alike, proved once again why it's among the finest open-air venues in the country - perhaps even underrated despite its perfection. With the city skyline glowing in the distance and sailboats gliding past, the setting alone was a show-stealer. But when Hauser took the stage, bow in hand and mischief in his eyes, the real magic began.
A classically trained virtuoso who studied under cello legends in London, Manchester, and the United States, Hauser has long demonstrated a deep reverence for traditional technique while boldly pushing the cello into contemporary arenas. From his viral YouTube covers of pop and rock hits to his global tours with Elton John and multiple solo albums, Hauser has redefined what a modern classical artist can be. His live performance at The Rady Shell underscored why his appeal is so expansive: the show was equal parts refinement, drama, and soul.
Presented by Live Nation San Diego, the concert was a sweeping musical journey that showcased the cello's emotional depth and surprising versatility. Hauser played everything from classical pieces to beloved movie themes, including stirring renditions of "My Heart Will Go On" from Titanic, the Game of Thrones theme, and the rousing Pirates of the Caribbean score. Each arrangement breathed new life into familiar melodies, amplified by The Shell’s flawless acoustics.
But this wasn’t just a recital - it was theater, comedy, and rock concert rolled into one. Hauser is as much a performer as he is a musician. He exaggerated bow strokes like a mad conductor, punctuated crescendos with hip thrusts, and danced across the stage with giddy abandon. At one point, he emerged wearing a Ricky Martin-style shirt to play "Let’s Get Loud" and "Livin’ La Vida Loca," drawing laughter and cheers from the audience.
But this wasn’t just a recital - it was theater, comedy, and rock concert rolled into one. Hauser is as much a performer as he is a musician. He exaggerated bow strokes like a mad conductor, punctuated crescendos with hip thrusts, and danced across the stage with giddy abandon. At one point, he emerged wearing a Ricky Martin-style shirt to play "Let’s Get Loud" and "Livin’ La Vida Loca," drawing laughter and cheers from the audience.
Between moving duets with his violinist Carolina and drum solos that gave the backing band moments to shine, Hauser played with format and expectation. He stuffed his bow down the trumpet and saxophone bells, executed dramatic spins and flourishes, and even turned "Sweet Caroline" into a comedic bit with Carolina, a timely wink to the Neil Diamond musical currently playing in town.
What makes the Hauser concert unique - especially in a venue like The Rady Shell - is the alchemy of contrast. The show leaned into spectacle with a thunderous rendition of Led Zeppelin’s "Kashmir" and even saw Hauser charging into the crowd during an electrifying performance of AC/DC’s "Highway to Hell." These moments kept the audience on its toes, unsure if they were at a symphony, a stand-up show, or a rock festival - and delighted by the surprise at every turn.
What makes the Hauser concert unique - especially in a venue like The Rady Shell - is the alchemy of contrast. The show leaned into spectacle with a thunderous rendition of Led Zeppelin’s "Kashmir" and even saw Hauser charging into the crowd during an electrifying performance of AC/DC’s "Highway to Hell." These moments kept the audience on its toes, unsure if they were at a symphony, a stand-up show, or a rock festival - and delighted by the surprise at every turn.
It all led to a poignant finale: Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah," rendered with aching beauty and emotional restraint as the crowd was urged to sing along. After an evening of wild antics and musical fireworks, Hauser brought the crowd to stillness with his haunting interpretation, reminding everyone that beneath the bravado lies a masterful artist whose passion runs deep.
It was a night that defied easy categorization: part classical concert, part comedy show, part rock arena blowout - and entirely entertaining. Under all the antics was sheer musical brilliance. Hauser’s technical mastery of the cello is never in doubt, and his ability to both move and amuse an audience places him in rare company.
For fans who packed into The Shell, this was more than just a concert - it was an experience. A celebration of music's ability to stir the soul and lift the spirit. And in the stunning setting of San Diego’s beloved bayside venue, the night became something truly transcendent: silly, stirring, and altogether sublime.
Hauser's performance was a reminder that classical music isn't just alive - it’s dancing, howling, laughing, and thrilling new audiences in ways few could have imagined. And that, perhaps, is his greatest gift.
It was a night that defied easy categorization: part classical concert, part comedy show, part rock arena blowout - and entirely entertaining. Under all the antics was sheer musical brilliance. Hauser’s technical mastery of the cello is never in doubt, and his ability to both move and amuse an audience places him in rare company.
For fans who packed into The Shell, this was more than just a concert - it was an experience. A celebration of music's ability to stir the soul and lift the spirit. And in the stunning setting of San Diego’s beloved bayside venue, the night became something truly transcendent: silly, stirring, and altogether sublime.
Hauser's performance was a reminder that classical music isn't just alive - it’s dancing, howling, laughing, and thrilling new audiences in ways few could have imagined. And that, perhaps, is his greatest gift.
Originally published on May 30, 2025.
