Keanu Reeves and Dogstar: Music Magic in Niagara Falls

Keanu Reeves and his band, Dogstar, transported fans back in time and into the future on a memorable night at the OLG Stage in Niagara Falls. This concert marked a unique fusion of nostalgia and fresh beginnings, with a packed house of 3,000 fans gathered to witness this legendary alternative rock band’s return to the stage. The crisp evening air was still kissed by the remnants of summer, a fitting backdrop for this highly anticipated event.

The atmosphere outside the venue was lusty, as a dedicated contingent of autograph hunters eagerly awaited a chance to meet Keanu Reeves and get their memorabilia signed. For many, this wasn’t just another concert but an opportunity to connect with a Hollywood icon, and the excitement was clear.

I had tried to secure tickets for the Toronto show at Lee’s Palace, but they vanished in a flash, much like most dates on Dogstar’s 2023 tour. Fortunately, additional dates were added, and I was able to score tickets for the Niagara Falls show, a choice I would not regret.

Fans from all corners of Ontario, as well as places like, Montreal, Buffalo, and even Michigan, had converged upon the venue. The sense of community and camaraderie among these concertgoers was heartwarming, emphasizing the enduring appeal of Dogstar’s music.

One fan’s creative tribute to Keanu Reeves took the form of a life-sized celebrity cutout, and many fans delighted in having their photos taken with it. Another fan was spotted wearing a Matrix-inspired dress, underlining the deep connection between Keanu’s cinematic legacy.

The OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino, a venue renowned for its impeccable acoustics and state-of-the-art technology, lived up to its reputation. Despite the upper bowl being curtained off, the intimate setting ensured that fans were never more than 150 feet away from the stage, creating an up-close and personal experience for everyone in attendance.

Archer Oh, the opening act from California, set the tone for the evening, leading up to the main event. Their energetic performance primed the audience for the rock spectacle that was about to unfold.

Dogstar took the stage with their drummer center stage on a low riser, immediately launching into a musical journey that spanned the band’s history. Bret Domrose, who alternated between a black Fender Stratocaster and a red Gibson Les Paul, showcased his exceptional guitar skills, while Keanu Reeves, wielding a beautiful blue burst Fender Precision Bass, held the rhythm with precision and charisma.

One of the standout moments of the night was the performance of “Glimmer,” a track that resonated deeply with me personally. The light show added a mesmerizing visual dimension to the music, enhancing the overall experience. Throughout the night, the crowd’s affection for the band was reciprocated, with cries of “we love you, Keanu” and “we love you, Bret,” met with the heartfelt response, “I love you too.”

The setlist was a well-curated mix of classic hits and new material, with tracks like “Blonde,” “Lust,” and “Everything Turns Around” taking fans on a musical journey through time. The band closed out the night with a vibrant encore, leaving the audience wanting more.

Dogstar consists of Keanu Reeves, Robert Mailhouse, and Bret Domrose, who made an exciting announcement during the show. Their new album, “Somewhere Between the Power Lines and Palm Trees,” is set for release on Friday, October 6, 2023, creating even more anticipation for what’s to come from this beloved band.

In a world where nostalgia and reinvention are often at odds, Dogstar effortlessly bridged the gap. Their return to the stage was not just a performance; it was a testament to the enduring power of music to connect people across generations and create unforgettable memories. As the night concluded, it was clear that Dogstar’s legacy was far from over. This was not just a concert; it was a celebration of the past, present, and future of alternative rock.

The Setlist is down below and don’t forget to leave a comment 🙂

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Drew Osborne

I’m Drew, the founder and editor of Front of the Stage. I have a strong love for music and photography, which started at a very young age. There’s just something I love about experiencing live music and capturing memories that will last a lifetime, and that’s how Front of the Stage came to be.