At the age of 80, she's 'riding a/the wave of' renewed interest in her work. [=she's experiencing a time when many people are interested in her work again]
The traffic cop 'waved' cars 'through'. [=waved in a way that told drivers to continue driving through a particular area]
The new school has triggered a 'wave' of optimism [=has made many people feel optimistic] about the public school system.
(..) I hope to Christ she don't expect us to wear these things. What ever it is, just do it. The more we play along the faster we'll get the hell out of here. Now is not the time to make waves. Jerry. You'll have to forgive Tiny. He can't hear so much. That poor baby. It's his daddy's fault. (..)2003 House of 1000 Corpses