Military Tattoo in Melbourne

In February 2016 the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo came to Melbourne for the first time and I was lucky to accompany my 80 year old Mother to the show. Originally two performances were scheduled, but ended up with six sell out shows. The famous pipes, drums, fiddles and bugles from around the world authentically recreated all the sights, sounds and atmosphere of one of the world’s greatest events. With and abundance of tartan and so many bagpipes you’d think we were in Scotland, not Etihad Stadium in Melbourne.

The Military Tattoo always looks to entertain and inspire and had the full life size replica of Edinburgh Castle to complete the authenticity of the event. The show featured international cast, showcasing their military music, with contributions from countries from the Pacific and Europe. The performers gave their best to play their part upholding their values, standards and traditions in this once of a lifetime experience.

1,200 performers from over 48 countries gave their absolute best to create this global gathering entertaining a huge cosmopolitan audience.  As always, the Tattoo has an ability to bring together thousands of people to watch this spectacle and being held in Melbourne was no exception, as they entertained with all the pomp and ceremony the show is famous for. For the record the event sold more tickets than U2, ACDC or One Direction and the venue had a closed roof. I had envisaged the roof would be open, but it was shut, which meant the show remained comfortable despite any inclement weather that may be forecast for the duration of the shows.

The kilted performers have only taken the show outside of Scotland four times in over sixty years and this is the first time held in Melbourne. This year’s theme is “fanfare for the future” about a shared past, present and future. The Scottish team behind the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo worked for two years designing the 90 minute production which was held at Etihad Stadium.

You don’t get more Scottish than mass bagpipes and kilts, and just like they do in Edinburgh the 1,200 performers all had the crowd marvelling as they entered the stadium by crossing the drawbridge.

The unique show bought together military bands in a colourful display of music and military precision with ceremonial elements from many nations. A sea of massed pipes and drums from world famous regiments showcased the military music, values and traditions of their own Armed Forces. These expert Pipers and Drummers are all current or previous serving sailors, soldiers and airmen (or women). The show was represented by The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, Battalions from The Royal Regiment of Scotland, Royal Air Force, Australian Defence Force, Highland Pipe bands, The Rats of Tobruk, The Tongan Royal Corps of Musicians, Marching Drill teams, Military bands from Fiji, Western Australia and South Australia, Fiddlers from Shetland and Melbourne, Highland Dancers, King’s Guards from Norway, a Kapa Haka group, New Zealand’s Army Band and more. The Tongan Royal Corps’ performance combined western music, traditional Tongan music, martial arts and dance.

All the groups were absolutely amazing, their appearance, uniforms, choreography and production was presented with absolute precision and accuracy. The Australian Defence Force Bands and the South Australian Police Band were welcomed with enthusiasm and energetically applauded by the patriotic crowd. I was amazed at the meticulous presentation for the whole program, but my favourite was the Top Secret Drum Corps. This outstanding band from Basel in Switzerland is an energetic group of sensational percussionists. The drummers were upbeat and playful, juggling drumsticks and spinning flags styled from military drumming drills of Swiss soldiers dating back to the Middle Ages.

The highlight of the evening for the crowd was the grand finale when the entire cast came together for the National Anthem and the internationally famous song of love and friendship, Auld Lang Syne. The stirring sight of the Lone Piper standing high on the castle wall and it was evident for many in the audience this poignant conclusion will leave memories that will be forever treasured.

After the march out there was an unexpected fireworks display.

Having seen firsthand the unique, stirring blend of military ceremony, music and entertainment it is easy to see why The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is one of the most popular events in the world. And it was a privilege to be with Mum to tick off her bucket list wish to attend this world class military event. Although not the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, Scotland this show in Melbourne was truly spectacular.

Have you seen the Military Tattoo? Do you have it on your radar to see in Edinburgh in August? Please leave a comment below and let us know.

We’d love if you would follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or click the Mix, Flipboard or other social media buttons below to share this post with others who might enjoy reading it. If you enjoyed this post please give this page a like.