As The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo draws to a close, spectators at the final performance got a sneak peek at what’s to come for 2017 as Splash of Tartan was unveiled.
Projected onto the iconic battlements of Edinburgh Castle, a 15 second animation, complete with aquatic audio effects, showcased the new theme for next year’s show which will celebrate Scotland’s Year of Heritage, History and Archaeology.
Each year, the Tattoo looks to establish a core theme which embraces major national anniversaries and initiatives. Splash of Tartan will pay homage to the international Scottish Diaspora community, who already have a deep rooted connection to the military spectacle. It continues the Tattoo’s purpose of using the event as a platform to bring contingents of the world together.
The theme is a key driver in influencing the content of the show, and is set to ignite a fresh, exciting mix of military pageantry for next year’s event which will take place between 4-26 August.
Brigadier David Allfrey commented: “As we conclude a remarkable season we are already looking to next year and beyond. In anticipation of Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archeology, we have chosen as our theme for 2017: ‘A Splash of Tartan’.
“This colourful banner will help us reinforce our links with our clans, families and the wider Scottish Diaspora. As Scotland’s influence has flowed across the world over the years, we are looking to reach out to the points of the compass where tartan and its patterns might have touched. And… we hope our audience might come together in this spirit, attending the Show dressed in their chosen tartans with bonnets and accoutrements! We hope the Clan Chiefs and their followers will join us, each on a special evening.
“At the same time, we are looking forward to a wonderful collaboration with the Royal Navy. Against the rich background of our heritage as an island nation, we will be celebrating our relationship with the sea – not just the briny blue that touches our shores but the world’s oceans and those that sail on them.”
Tickets for the 2017 show will go on sale on Thursday 1st December.
Founding Editor of The Edinburgh Reporter.
Edinburgh-born multimedia journalist and iPhoneographer.
