23/07/2008 07:49:00
The city of Edinburgh is gearing up for one of its most popular Festival events - the Military Tattoo.
Each year, the sell-out show, set against the magnificent backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, captivates some 200,000 spectators and this year's event promises to shine with a number of talented acts, as well as a specially-commissioned fanfare - Op Corporate - to open every show.
The event will feature more than 1,000 performers from across the globe - including America, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and the UK. Among them are the Indian Army Chief's Military Band, comprised of 40 musicians, who will make their first appearance at the Tattoo in 46 years.
Melbourne's Rats of Tobruk will make their sixth appearance at the event, while the Singapore Police Gurkha Pipes and drums will return after a 17 year absence. The Bands of Her Majesty's Royal Marines Scotland, Plymouth and Portsmouth will be joined by the likes of the King's Guards Band of Norway and the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland.
The all-girl Lochiel Champion Marching Drill Team from Wellington, New Zealand will also make a comeback, while one of the most renowned university marching bands in the US - the 100-member Golden Eagles Marching Band from South East Missouri and the Massed Highland Dancers - are also set to perform.
Long-time favourites, such as the massed pipes and drums, massed bands and the Lone Piper will also feature in the performance.
Major General Euan Loudon, event chief executive and producer, said, "I plan to present the best of Scotland's heritage along with wonderful variety from around the world, which I hope Tattoo visitors will delight in."
The 59th Edinburgh Tattoo will run 25 performances from 1-23 August and will be televised on BBC1 on 23 August.